Shops help keep Portsmouth's newest museum dedicated to the First World War aliveÂ

As the country observes the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War, the Pompey Pals charity has been given a donation of £5,500 by colleagues at Southern Co-op's stores in Portsmouth, Havant, Porchester, Drayton and Purbrook. The Pompey Pals charity aims to commemorate all men and women from the Portsmouth who served in any capacity during the war. It is estimated that the war claimed the lives of approximately 7,500 people from Portsmouth. Earlier this year, the Pompey Pals charity opened its first museum at Fort Widley dedicated to telling the stories of those involved in the conflict. Chris Pennycook, from the Pompey Pals charity, said the donation would help them to develop the museum and research centre at Fort Widley.

He added: '˜We are delighted Southern Co-op has chosen to support The Pompey Pals charity. We look forward to meeting many of the members at our centre in the future.'' Members of Southern Co-op  were recently given a special behind the scenes tour of Fort Widley and the Pompey Pals charity '“ with some being able tell their families' wartime tales. Pete Raynor, Southern Co-op's area business manager, described the site as '˜special' and said his team was glad to help.