START - Srilankan Trust to Aid and Rebuild Tangalle - has moved up a gear this week with its first meeting of trustees. Set-up by local solictor Paul Cowper and his wife Jane, who had a miraculous escape from the Sri Lankan village which was torn apart by the tsunami tidal wave, the appeal to raise funds to help rebuild the community there, is becoming a charitable trust and registering as a charity. Joining Paul and Jane as trustees are Chris Noble, headmaster of Tenby's Greenhill School, Dr. Mike Brew, Tenby county councillor Michael Williams and Josephine Hammond, whose son William and his partner, Jane's daughter Joanne, were also on holiday in Tangalle when the tragedy struck. Treasurer is Ian Williams, of the Alexander Partnership, Tenby, while secretary is Julie Evans. This week's meeting reviewed the 'unbelievable' response to the appeal since its launch only two weeks ago. Businesses, organisations, clubs and individuals were all showing great interest in START's aims of developing direct ties between Tenby and Tangalle and getting money straight to the people. "The initial emphasis will be on helping the schools and the children in need," said Paul following the meeting. "Contacts are being made in Tangalle by Greenhill School and the school is also developing a website which will soon be able to provide information and photographs," he continued. "People will be able to view projects developing and see exactly how the funds are being used to help rebuild the community. "Other schools throughout Pembrokeshire are also showing enormous enthusiasm, with a growing list having asked me to speak them. "Fund-raising events are being planned, so people will have lots of opportunities to show their generosity. "We really would like to hear from businesses and organisations that are prepared to donate and raise funds," he added. The website details will be published as soon as it is ready. In the meantime, please contact Paul or Jane on (01834) 813997. Donations can be made to START at any Nat West Bank. Account number 71011374 and sort code 55-61-35 Tenby.

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