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Boss of Ovenu Newton Abbot pledges 10% of November’s takings to South Devon foodbank

The owner of oven valeting firm Ovenu Newton Abbot has pledged to donate ten percent of his November takings to a South Devon foodbank.

Rob Burkitt, 33, who only launched his business last month, reacted to the effects caused by the latest lockdown by backing Homeless in Teignbridge Support (HITS) Foodbank.

The father-of-three, who is married to Sara, has already donated £100 to the local Rec Trust, which provided free school dinners to families in need during the October half term.

Rob, who lives in Torquay, said: “It was always my intention to donate to charity while running my business and I felt it was important to react quickly to the hardships caused by the current situation.

“I’ve always felt strongly that I wanted to support those families who are finding it hard to cope and, after supporting the local free school dinners campaign, I decided to contact HITS to discuss how I could support their work.

“It’s such a simple way to make a big difference to those in need and I would encourage every business to consider making a similar gesture.”

Theresa Copsey, of HITS food bank said: “We are so grateful for Rob’s support. It is an extremely difficult time for charities with the pandemic and lockdown restrictions, so it’s important we raise awareness and funds that allow us to continue meeting the high levels of demand that we are experiencing.

“Our distribution of food, household crisis and toiletry packs are an absolute lifeline to families and individuals in and around the Teignbridge area, so Rob’s donation will make a difference to peoples’ lives.”

Ovenu Newton Abbot, which covers Newton Abbot together with surrounding areas, including Teignmouth, Dawlish, Ashburton. Bovey Tracey, Chagford and Moretonhampstead, is accepting bookings at its discretion, with the strict stipulation that both parties observe the two-metre social distancing rule, along with guidelines on hygiene and cleanliness.

Rik Hellewell, managing director of the Ovenu franchise, said: “I am extremely proud of Rob. Not only has he set up a new business in the middle of this pandemic but he has also found time to think of others and is making an effort to do something about it.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by News Gathering .