A KNUTSFORD campaign is appealing for more people to come forward with donations to help residents keep warm this winter.

Knutsford and District Lions’ Winter Fuel Allowance Scheme, Project Wenceslas, relaunched several weeks ago, but more funds are needed if the charity is to achieve its objective of eliminating fuel poverty in the town and the surrounding districts.

This is the second year that the group has run its campaign, and it hopes that it will be as successful as the first.

Peter Willgoose, Knutsford Lions member, said: “Last year donations amounted to more than £4,500 thanks to the generosity of local senior citizens and others, and this enabled the Lions to help many local families and individuals of all ages keep warm during the winter months.

“Most people entitled to the fuel allowance are likely to have received their payments from the government by now, and if any of them feel they do not need all of the monies they can help those who do need help by making a donation to ‘Project Wenceslas’.

“People and organisations not entitled to the Winter Fuel Allowance are also most welcome to donate. All such donations are ‘ring fenced’ for the project.”

The Lions run the project in conjunction with the Citizens Advice Bureau and Great Places Housing, and it’s those organisations who identify the families and individuals in most need.

Funds are then released by the Lions so that payments can be made direct to the fuel accounts of the affected households.

“The system ensures that the money is used for the purpose for which it is intended,” added Peter

Donations can be made to the Lions ‘Just Giving’ account by visiting knutsfordlions.org.uk and clicking on ‘Just Giving’ on the Home Page.

Alternatively cheques made payable to ‘Knutsford Lions Charity Account’ ,marked ‘Project Wenceslas’ on the back, can be sent to Knutsford and District Lions c/o Peter Willgoose, Chestnut Cottage, Tabley Road, Knutsford, WA16 0NE.

If the cheque is from a tax payer Gift Aid can be claimed which will increase the donation by 25 per cent - Gift Aid forms are available on request.

For more information call Peter Willgoose on 01565 631255.