BISHOP'S Waltham area deanery is after donations for its Christmas charity, Hackney Churches Night Shelter for the homeless.

Each year the deanery sends gifts and food to the needy in the London borough.

Non-perishables like tea, coffee, sugar and dried soup are needed. Also welcome are shoes, socks, trainers, anoraks, T-shirts, polo shirts, sweatshirts, sleeping bags and vacuum flasks.

The appeal is organised through St Barnabas Parochial Church at Swanmore. Items can be taken to Paterson Centre Old School Room, Swanmore, on Saturday.