During the Second World War (1939-45) the M&S Co-op organised a 'Comfort For Troops Fund'. This was to support morale amongst the men and women in the armed forces, and was to be spent on sending gifts to those away from home. Raffles, socials, and collections in stores would raise the money. Alternatively you could credit your dividend on purchases to share No. 32 so it went to the fund. A list of recent contributions, and letters from the recipients would be published in the monthly magazine.

"To All Concerned,
Many thanks for your very welcome gift and your wishes for the coming year. It is very cheering to think that the 'Old Firm' still thinks of us even if we are hundreds of miles from Downing Street. I have only been abroad here in North Africa for a short while, and I find that winter out here is much more pleasant than in Manchester, but I would leave all this to-morrow just to get back home and to the society. But until the great day arrives, may I wish you and the society 'All the best for 1944' - J.A.Palmer (Fog Lane Grocery) "
M&S Co-operative Herald March 1944 pg 51.

The gifts went not only to employees of the Society but to co-operative members, and members of their household in the Forces. The parcels would be packed by staff on their Sunday off work, and included cigarettes, shaving soap, razor blades, cake, chocolate, and chewing gum. However a shortage of goods meant the parcels had to stop after March 1940. The gifts resumed in the August by sending 5 shilling postal orders and a covering letter. Ten shilling postal orders were sent to the homes of those who were prisoners of war.

"One of the most consistent and regular contributors to the Comforts' Fund has been Beech Road Butchery Branch, and Mr. Stone and his assistants are to be congratulated upon their excellent achievement. By collections, special efforts, raffles &c., they have raised the magnificent sum of over £250 to the Comforts' Fund. In his effort they have been wholeheartedly backed up by a splendid set of member-customers , many of whom have vied with Mr. Stone in his enthusiasm for the fund, and have eagerly helped in practical efforts, such as providing the article for the weekly raffle, at times even having a waiting list for the honour of providing the gift." 
M&S Co-operative Herald September 1944 pg 171.

Mr. Stone, his butchers and customers on Beech Road continued to raise over £400 before the scheme ended in April 1946. This contributed to the grand total of £21,365 13s. 1d being raised and 70,093 parcels, postal orders and vouchers being dispatched.

Just to round off this little story, and to give some idea of the shortages experienced by the people of Britain in the war :- 

"On 1 November a dance was held at West Didsbury Co-operative Hall in aid of the Comforts for Troops Fund organised by Mr. Flynn and his committee. The evening was voted a success by all, and Cyril Boole and his band, who supplied the music, were most enthusiastic in their work. A pair of fully-fashioned stockings was raffled, given by Mr. L.G.Williams, and the recipient was delightfully surprised with her prize. The proceeds of the evening were £9 and ten shillings." 
M&S Co-operative Herald December 1944 pg 245.