THE Lions Club of Alton has this week launched its fourth annual Wenceslas Campaign – a drive that invites those people who receive, but who actually don’t need, the Government’s Winter Fuel Payment to consider donating it to the Lions to help people in fuel poverty.

Supported by the Alton Herald and Alton Citizens’ Advice (formerly CAB), the aim will be to help those people living in the community who may, through economic hardship, find it difficult to keep warm this winter.

Like other Lions clubs around the country, the Alton branch will work closely with Citizens’ Advice to ensure that any money donated goes directly to those in need.

The hope is to emulate last year’s success when, thanks to the generosity of district folk, the Alton campaign raised £2,850 which was used to help reduce fuel debt and to provide fuel vouchers for those in the community in need of this form of support.

David Callow, of Alton Citizens’ Advice, said: “We deal with many clients with debt problems and the cost of fuel is an increasing issue.

“People are often in debt through no fault of their own as maybe there has been illness, disability or loss of a job.

“Another problem is a number of older people living in large houses which are expensive to heat while only having limited means.

“The initiative of Alton Lions has meant we could help these clients by using the money to pay the client’s supplier directly, reducing their arrears.”

Mr Callow added: “The partnership between the Citizens’ Advice and the Lions means that details of names and addresses of the people getting help are kept confidential but we are confident they are in real need.”

On behalf of the Alton Herald, owner Sir Ray Tindle confirmed that he is a personal supporter of the Lions’ Wenceslas Appeal.

“I am delighted that the Lions Club is once again asking those who don’t actually require it to pass on the heat payment that senior citizens receive from the Government.

“I am very pleased to do so and I know that the Lions are doing a great job in passing this on to those in need.”

This newspaper contains a leaflet, sponsored by the Alton Herald and DG Design and Print, Alton, outlining details of the Wenceslas campaign.

Alternatively, call 0845 833 2701 or visit alton

lions.org.uk.