A Hugglescote mum-of-two is hoping a VE Day-inspired fundraiser her family is staging today (Fri) is going to take off.

Kath Spencer is drawing the outline of a Spitfire on the pavement outside her Millpond home and inviting passers-by taking their daily Government-approved exercise to fill it in with coins to contribute to the Hugglescote, Donington le Heath and Coalville Community Response Unit.

Kath came up with the novel idea of combining the 75th anniversary of VE Day with boosting the community response unit's coffers because she can't offer the volunteer group practical help.

She suffers from a rare genetic condition and is currently shielding, but wants to play her part in supporting the community volunteers who are supporting the elderly and vulnerable during the coronavirus pandemic.

"The community response unit is amazing, working tirelessly to provide a much-needed and valuable service for which everyone is thankful," Kath told Coalville Nub News.

"I want to do something, but I can't offer practical support because of my condition and the need to shield myself.

"I really hope villagers will support my idea.

"It doesn't matter if it's a few pence or a few pounds, every penny counts and will help our local communities."

The whole family is getting behind Kath's fundraising venture.

Children, 15-year-old Sam and 12-year-old Ysobel, have dug out toys and games to give away tomorrow and husband Tony is helping to set up decorations - including patriotic bunting and a balloon arch - in the front garden where the family will be joining in the VE Day anniversary celebrations with drinks and cakes in the afternoon.