A Kidderminster-based group has been loaned a vehicle in just a matter of minutes, following an Internet appeal.

Forces Support, a charity that supports the families of those killed in the UK armed forces, made the plea for wheels on  Facebook.

The organisation offers a unique service to military families by building children’s play areas, as well as helping with gardening and decorating. Towards the end of last year, the charity created a playroom and a garden play area just in time for the fourth birthday of Fusilier Lee Rigby’s son.

The plea and rapid response highlighted the strength that social media has in the world today, whilst also emphasising the importance of local networks. The call for the car, which was needed by Caronne McBridge, the charity’s new liaison officer, was answered by a local vehicle leasing company.

The van and car contract hire firm responded with the free loan of a white Citroen C1 for the next 18 months, with its owner, Kevin Tafft, adding:

“We are proud to be able to support such a worthwhile cause, these families deserve all the support we as a country can offer them in their time of need.”

The car will be used by McBridge to travel throughout the UK to follow up on the charity’s projects and meet with bereaved families.

The loan of the car has reportedly left the charity stunned, with its chief executive, Bill McCance, commenting:

“We were overwhelmed and could hardly believe our ears when the offer was made, our fundraiser Sian had literally only just posted our plea and we didn’t expect to get a response if I’m honest.”

Mr McCance went on to add that the organisation was very grateful for the loan of the car. He said that as a publicly unfunded charity, the group relies on such gifts, so it will have a huge impact.

Steven Morris