CUMBRIA Community Foundation is today urgently appealing for support for its Winter Warmth Fund as temperatures around the county continue to drop.

With a forecast of the coldest winter for 100 years, the charity fears the demand for help could be greater than the fund available.

The charity’s director is asking those people who receive the Government’s Winter Fuel Payment, but feel they do not need it to stay warm, to consider donating to the fund.

Andy Beeforth, Director of Cumbria Community Foundation said: “We’re into our third year of running this appeal and we want to help more older people in Cumbria stay warm this winter. We know that the Winter Warmth Fund saves lives. The money raised goes straight back to people in this county who are faced with the dreadful dilemma of either eating food or heating their homes.

“Donations are coming in slightly slower than last year and requests for help coming in slightly faster. I think this is down to more people knowing about the fund and how to apply. So I would ask anyone who feels they can donate, to do so.

“So far £19,214.38 has been donated by people across the county and although we are heartened by everyone’s generosity, we are already receiving requests for help.”

Donate Online - at http://www.justgiving.com/winterwarmthfund