A search and rescue team in Wiltshire is set to kit out its team with radio equipment after receiving a donation from Persimmon Homes.

Wiltshire Search and Rescue Team has been handed a £1,000 grant thanks to Persimmon Homes Wessex Community Champions scheme, which will take the charity up to its fundraising target. The Wessex region has £2,000 to give away each month courtesy of the initiative.

The search and rescue team which has members right across Wiltshire and is a non-profit charity that is deployed when a person reported missing is assessed to be vulnerable and there is a potential risk to life.

Sue Coombs, on behalf of the charity, said: “As you can probably imagine, it is very difficult for us to carry out our usual face-to-face fundraising in supermarkets and the like during these very difficult times with most of our long-term projects having to be put on hold until better times.”

“To be awarded this sum means that we can continue with our digital radio project and move ahead with two new units. These digital handheld radios give us far better coverage, are encrypted to secure sensitive information, and give us the ability to track each unit in real time to assist our search managers with monitoring where everyone is in the area of rescue operations."

“It is really wonderful that large companies such as yourselves are, even during these difficult times, finding the time and money to help local charities in this way. It makes a huge difference to us and I can assure you that there will be some very happy faces within the organisation.”

Pauline Fletcher, sales and marketing director for Persimmon Homes Wessex, said: “Wiltshire Search and Rescue team provide a vital service in the community and it’s one we are proud to get behind.”

“Our donation takes the group up to their fundraising target, meaning they will be able to purchase their all-new reliable equipment.”

“If applicants were unsuccessful last month, we urge them to visit the Persimmon Homes website and to try again and hopefully they will become our next Community Champion.”

To apply for a slice of Community Champions funding, please visit www.persimmonhomes.com/charity