ROTARIANS have pledged £1,000 to Operation Covert, the single biggest donation received by the appeal so far.

Kidderminster Rotary Club members were thrilled to pledge the cash, said president, Mervyn Silcox.

He said: "It is money well spent because of what Rhydd Covert does for the children and youth of Wyre Forest.

"If we can get them into Scouts they won't be so inclined to vandalise and get into bad habits.

"The centre helps the community, not only locally, but Scouts from all over the Midlands.

"Most of us were in the Cubs and Scouts and we have an ex-district commissioner in the club so that was another reason."

The cash was raised during a year of activities, including a raffle at a Kidderminster superstore, a club dinner and from member donations, Mr Silcox added.

District commissioner for Kidderminster & District Scout Council, Dave Denton, said: "I am absolutely thrilled with such a large donation and it helps us realise that we have a great deal of support in reaching our final target."

Shuttle/Times and News editor, Clive Joyce, said: "This an extremely generous gesture by the Rotarians. They do so much good work in Wyre Forest and we are delighted that they have chosen to support our appeal, which will benefit many young people and their families."

The club regularly supports local causes with donations, Mr Silcox said. Beneficiaries include Kidderminster Hospital and pensioners who were taken on a trip to Blackpool.