A CHARITY founded by a Hampshire man when he emigrated to Brazil 77 years ago is still going strong and New Forest villagers have been raising cash for it.

Hilary Babey and friends staged a “Great Night Out” event at Copythorne Parish Hall and raised more than £1,300 for Evangelical Action Brazil (EAB) which was started in 1938 by Albert Mundy when he and his wife Daisy quit Plaitford and moved to South America.

The charity, originally called the Gospel to Brazil Faith Mission now works with around 80 schools and churches in a poverty-stricken area of north-east Brazil.

A highlight of the conert was performance by budding opera singer Alida Stoman, 17 who delivered several classical arias to rapturous applause.

Entertainment also came from Cantabile – a singing group led by Carol Bunday and the Reverend Julian Williams gave a piano recital.

Cadnam Methodist Band played a variety of tunes including the Radetzky March.

An update on the work of the EAB was given by Marion Rashleigh and there was also a silent auction in support of the charity.

Afterwards organiser Hilary Babey said she was “impressed with the generosity and spirit” of those who attended the fundraiser including the performers. Anyone who would like to support EAB is asked to contact Hilary on 01794 323279.