BIG-HEARTED York racegoers have been thanked for donating more than £6,600 to the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association Forces Help.

The record sum was raised by eight soldiers from 34 Field Hospital RAMC, Strensall and 2 Signal Regiment, York, assisted by six voluntary SSAFA supporters during a collection held outside York Racecourse on John Smith’s Cup Day.

Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) John May, the association’s county chairman, said: “The fantastic generosity of the York racegoers makes it possible for us to continue to support the men and women of all three Armed Services and those of the Merchant Navy, and their families in their time of need.”