YOUNG people across Dorset are set to benefit from a donation of more than £2,400 to the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation.

The cash was collected by staff and customers at Ferndown Haskins Garden Centre over 12 months of fundraising events and wishing well donations.

Linda and Pete Thornton set up the charity in 2008 in memory of their son who died aged 22 while serving with the Royal Marines in Afghanistan.

The organisation supports young people from a wide range of youth organisations providing them with scholarships and bursaries to support their personal developments and the pursuit of their ambitions. Since its formation in 2008 the JTYAF has made awards to 370 young people which total more than £170,000.

Linda and Pete said: “We thank everyone for donating to the foundation. “The money provides the funding for many activities and events that enhance the lives of a variety young people from the area, offered as bursaries selected by the trustees through official organisations.

“More than £65,000 has been allocated this year.

“For example the money raised at Haskins will fund five local Girl Guides to attend their County Camp at Dorchester, also support five places for disadvantaged young people aboard a Challenger Yacht with the Tall Ships Trust and two bursaries for students at Ferndown Upper School.”

Anyone wishing to support or donate to The John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation can call 07792 121645 or visit jtyaf.com.