HOMELESS charity workers have said they have been “absolutely overwhelmed” by donations they have received in order to keep their services going.

Last week Blackburn-based Community Spirit appealed for a sponsor to help pay for the group’s yearly rent and help pay for stock, needing around £1,800 for the year.

In the days since the appeal, the charity has been inundated with donations, including £75 a month from David Livesey of Woods Fruit and Veg in Darwen Market and £20 a month from a gentleman in Blackburn.

Carole Davis, who owns The Clifton Arms pub in Grimshaw Park, Blackburn, has agreed to put on a fundraising event for the charity.

Angela Ingram, of the charity, said: “We can’t believe the fantastic response we’ve had so far.

“It’s only been a few days and we have reached roughly half way to getting our target.

“I have only just spoken to an elderly lady who wishes to donate some money to us as well.

“It’s brought a warm feeling to our hearts knowing people are so generous and kind

“We are absolutely overwhelmed.”

The group runs a weekly soup kitchen open house on Tuesday nights at Wesley Hall Methodist Church in Feilden Street in Blackburn and supports dozens of hungry, homeless people.

During the winter months the team goes out every night and hands out food to those who are sleeping rough on the streets as the temperatures drop.

Ms Ingram said: “The money will go towards covering the cost of rent at Wesley Hall and buying things you don’t often think about including food containers, plastic cutlery, pans and bits like that.

“Any money we do make over this we can put towards buying other stock we hand out, like sleeping bags and toiletries, as well as anything else that might break or need replacing through wear and tear.”

Other support for the charity includes free haircuts by Lorraine Hargreaves, owner of Fellaz Barbers in Rishton.

She now regularly volunteers on the Tuesday nights to provide free hair cuts for the homeless.

Neil Mistry, Community Spirit’s chairman, said: “The support from our amazing volunteers and donators has been incredible.

“The money we raise goes such a long way and makes such a big difference to the vulnerable people we support.”

Anyone who wishes to make a donation can call Angela Ingram on 07876526067.