Hastings Co-op chief executive officer Allan Gordon said both organisations wholeheartedly supported the concept of enabling local students to further their education, training or chosen vocation and congratulated HEF on its achievements since establishing in 2011.

“We’re really pleased to be able to help out, but our valued customers also deserve our thanks and gratitude for purchasings Saxbys soft drinks during the campaign late last year,” he said.

Saxbys managing director Ian Turner said he was proud to support the HEF and it’s admirable objectives.

“We were also really pleased to work with Hastings Co-op in this initiative, where five cents from the sale of every 125ml bottle and 10 cents from four packs went to the HEF,” he said.

HEF Chairman Peter Cuskelly explained that funds donated by individuals, local businesses and organisations such as Hastings Co-op and Saxbys are managed by a committee of local volunteers and distributed in the form of reimbursements for computer hardware/software, textbooks, uniforms, equipment, tools of trade, travel and accommodation.

“The fund’s impact can make a major difference in helping get students through initial difficulties and financial hurdles in those important early aspirational steps,” Mr Cuskelly said.

Hastings Co-op has been a long-term supporter of HEF, with annual donations and specially marked collection tins at each of its 13 businesses across the Hastings.