KNUTSFORD residentsare being urged to get involved in an initiative aimed at helping the homeless during the winter months.

The Winter Warmers for the Homeless appeal, launched by Victoria Whittaker from Wilmslow, is relying on the community to donate clothing, bedding and toiletries.

There will be a donation point at Flueboost in Parkgate Industrial Estate, on Saturday November November 28 from 11.30am to 12.30pm, so that the public can give unwanted items for Manchester homeless shelter, Lifeshare.

Having donated items to Manchester charity, the Mustard Tree, Victoria realised that even more could be done for people less fortunate this Christmas by simply enlisting the support of local communities.

Business development manager Victoria said: “The festive season is an important time for most families but do we ever stop to think about those who are really in need and haven’t got a place to call home.

"We’re urging the community to come together and donate generously. Whether it’s just a few items or a cupboard full of unworn clothes and bedding, anything and everything helps so please let’s try and make a difference.”

The campaign is already receiving feedback from the community, particularly from businesses in and around Knutsford.

Alison Cartwright from Flueboost in Knutsford and Lydia Causer from Thurst Creative in Allostock have both invested considerable time in promoting the cause after they helped Victoria with the donation of items to the Mustard Tree.

The items needed are: men's jeans, shoes, boots, trainers, outdoor jackets, socks, holdalls, rucksacks, jumpers, underwear, gloves, hats and scarves, sleeping bags and blankets, disposable razors, shaving cream, shampoo or shower gel, toothpaste and toothbrushes.

Judy Vickers, operations manager at Lifeshare, said: “We really appreciate everything that is being organised by Victoria and Emma. We’re always in need of clean clothes, sleeping bags and toiletries particularly over winter.

“Our Christmas programme is launching on 23 December until 29 December and will be open from 7am to10pm offering all day snacks as well as breakfast, lunch and dinner. By offering our clients shelter from the cold, use of the Lifeshare facilities and fresh clothes, we will hopefully make the festive period a little easier for them.”

The full address of the drop off point is Flueboost, Unit 6 The Grove, Wellington Close, Parkgate Industrial Estate, WA16 8XP.