GENEROUS people across South Somerset have so far helped raise £54,000 to bring relief to others struggling to stay warm.

Somerset Community Foundation is calling for a push in the New Year in a bid to reach its largest ever Surviving Winter target of £100,000.

The foundation's local charity partners already started distributing some of the money before Christmas - they provide cash so the most vulnerable members in our communities can stay warm, active and healthy and also support essential services like Meals on Wheels, lunch clubs and community transport schemes.

The appeal was started in 2010 when a supporter donated the equivalent of his Winter Fuel Payment from the Government.

SCF chief executive Justin Sargent said the effect of people living in cold homes costs the NHS £1.36billion a year, while there are an average 300 cold related deaths in Somerset.

He added: “The response to the appeal so far has been phenomenal.

“Through no fault of their own, too many people will be unable to heat their homes adequately this winter, but, thanks to the generosity of Somerset people, many will have a warmer and brighter Christmas.

“We still need donations, and anyone who feels they can support the appeal will undoubtedly make a difference to someone this winter.”

Donations may be made via the Somerset Community Foundation website www.somersetcf.org.uk or by sending a cheque to their office at Yeoman House, Bath and West Showground, Shepton Mallet, BA4 6QN.