A CALENDAR which was launched in memory of a fallen South Derbyshire soldier has raised £8,500 for the Royal British Legion.
The 11 women behind the project, who all have connections to members of the armed forces, have spoken of their pride at raising the sum, a remarkable achievement considering the calendar was only launched in November ahead of Remembrance Sunday.
The project was led by Lisa Aston, sister-in-law of former royal military policeman Corporal Russell Aston, from Newhall, who was killed in Iraq in 2003, and her British Legionettes.
The group of women formed as a way to keep the memories of their fallen loved ones alive.
Each member has their own month in the calendar, wearing part of the uniform of a different military regiment, with a group photo for November to signify Remembrance Sunday.
The group managed to cover the steep £6,000 printing costs thanks to the support of a number of businesses in the local area.
Mrs Aston, from Coton-in-the-Elms, said: “I have been overwhelmed by the kindness of people and the words spoken about what we are all doing. We are so very proud to do this and most of all we are extremely proud to be honouring all our fallen heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice in both past and present conflicts.
“As part of the development of this calendar we have met some amazing people who have supported us along the way, who have been amazing and so supportive. A massive thank you to them all.”
