Thanks to more than 300 generous supporters from across Wells and wider Somerset, the annual Surviving Winter appeal, which provides funding and support to our older neighbours who are struggling to heat their homes, is already more than halfway to reaching its target of £100,000.

Surviving Winter, which is run by Somerset Community Foundation (SCF), encourages pensioners who can afford to, to donate some or all of their Winter Fuel Payment.

The charity aims to support around 500 vulnerable older people across Somerset with a Surviving Winter grant every winter, helping to keep them warm, safe and well, and easing financial pressure during the cold winter.

Those in need are also given specialist support, and connected to local services and community groups that can reduce loneliness and isolation.

SCF is delighted to announce the Rt Rev Peter Hancock, Bishop of Bath and Wells, has pledged his support for the campaign.

Bishop Peter, who is a vice-president of SCF and patron of Age UK, said: "Donating some or all of your Winter Fuel Payment to the Surviving Winter appeal is a simple and easy way to help some of the elderly in our community who are struggling to stay warm and healthy in winter.

"This small gesture will go a long way towards helping those who are most in need. Please consider giving to this great cause if you can."

To donate some or all of your Winter Fuel Payment, or to make a donation of any size to the Surviving Winter appeal, send a cheque made payable to Somerset Community Foundation (writing SW on the reverse), Yeoman House, Bath and West Showground, Shepton Mallet, BA4 6QN; call 01749 344949; or you can donate online via the red button below.

Donation and Gift Aid forms are available to download on the SCF website or you can print out and fill in the Surviving Winter Gift Aid Declaration Form at the top of this story when you post your cheque.