Rotary International has put in place a special plan involving Rotary Clubs in neighbouring countries (e.g. Poland, Romania and Moldova), Shelterbox, the Red Cross and UN. Rotarians

Together they are uniquely placed to identify local needs.

President-elect of the Kingsbridge club Amanda Bloomer says: “Rotary is non-political but we always distinguish wrong from right and in this case we felt we had to help.

“It’s horrific to think what people in Ukraine are going through.”

Rotary will ensure that the money raised is directed to where it is best needed and solely for humanitarian relief.

To start the ball rolling the local club has already donated £1,500.

There are 46 Rotary clubs in Ukraine and Amanda added: “The fact that we have a network in place will mean it should be much easier to distribute whatever is needed eg train tickets, clothes and other aid.”

The collection on Saturday will be held at the Bandstand between 9am and 2pm.