SUPPORTERS at Exeter City's home match with Southampton contributed generously to the Dragon's Challenge fundraising effort.

Eleven employees from Charles Stanley stockbrokers and their families raised £817.26 with a bucket collection at Saturday's game.

Assistant branch director Nicola Perry, who helped organise the collection, said: "We also raised 25 Dutch cents, 1 US cent, a humbug and a boiled sweet!

"We were touched by the support we received on the day, with many people commenting on the good work being done by the NSPCC."

Branch director and City supporter David Coard apologised to the fan who contributed, thinking the collection was for the club's Pitch In campaign.

"We would like to thank him very much and hope he agrees it is still going to a good cause," said David.

Elsewhere, a collection organised by Midas Group at Marks & Spencer in Exeter High Street on Friday, raised £250.

Charles Stanley staff are now turning their attention to the Hound Tour! sponsored dog walk they are organising on Sunday, March 7. There are still a few places left for dog owners to join them on either a 10-mile, or a three-mile, walk across Dartmoor, subject to obtaining a minimum level of sponsorship.

Assistant branch director Charlotte Lambeth said: "Support so far from our clients has been great. The office dogs, Cassie and Molly, have taken out a gym membership to get ready, and their owners have too!

"We have raised around £1,500 so far, but hope to raise even more. It should be fun, and has provided a useful motivator for those of us who resolved to get fitter this year."

For more information about the walk, email charlotte.lambeth@ charles-stanley.co.uk.