SEVENTY-FIVE years ago, the first evacuees arrived in Kingsbridge to escape the horrors of the Second World War.

One of them was Laurie Ford from Havering in Essex, who has held a special place for Kingsbridge in his heart ever since.

To remember the kindness and hospitality he received in the town, Laurie has recently made donations to three local charities: the Coleridge Bus, the Devon Air Ambulance Trust, Saltstone Caring and the mayor’s charity - which this year is the Kingsbridge branch of the Royal British Legion.

Heléna Holt, chief executive of DAAT said: ‘We were delighted to be one of the recipients of Laurie’s very kind donations marking the 75th anniversary of his first visit as an evacuee.

‘Devon Air Ambulance is entirely supported by fundraising and every donation is gratefully received. It’s wonderful that Mr Ford adopted as one of his causes a charity that is there for all, locals and visitors alike.’

Elizabeth Bewley-Jones, chair of Saltstone Caring said: ‘It helps us to continue caring in the community. This donation is given in the true sprit of Saltsone as we help people who are isolated and vulnerable.

‘I am sure Laurie must have felt isolated at times when he was sent here and it is good to put something back into such a local charity.’

Amanda Bloomer, trustee of Saltstone Caring added: ‘Having had the pleasure of speaking to Laurie on a few occasions now, he sounds like the most wonderful person, someone who has spent much of his life working tirelessly for a variety of good causes in one way or another, raising much needed funds.

‘To send such generous donations to charities which provide a vital service within our local area, because of his fond memories of Kingsbridge, shows the measure of Laurie - a true gentleman in every sense.’

Councillor Wayne Grills, town mayor said: ‘Laurie’s generosity is totally fabulous and it’s wonderful that he thinks so highly of Kingsbridge and its community groups.’

Laurie revisited the town for the fiftieth anniversary of his evacuation in 1990, telling the Gazette at the time: ‘I saw it all as an adventure. I had never been outside Essex before.

‘We came from Paddington, and changed trains at South Brent - the journey took all day. I brought my gas mask with me and a few other bits and pieces.

‘It was wonderful in Kingsbridge - we swam in the quay and that’s where I learnt to swim with my school-friends. We dived in from where the car park now is.’

Laurie stayed with Mr and Mrs Ellis who owned a bakery in the town, saying: ‘I watched the bread being made and plaited. On Sundays, the towns-people used to bring their chickens for Mr Ellis to cook in his big ovens - they were still hot after baking.

‘I also went with him on his bread rounds. He sold gorgeous pasties.’