A weekly newspaper has raised more than £2,500 with a Christmas appeal to support a local homeless charity.

The Stroud News and Journal collected donations from generous readers to help The Marah Trust which provides regular hot meals and support for homeless people in the area.

And reporter Crispin Northey has given his own time by helping out at the charity every Wednesday during lunchtime sessions, building up a good rapport with fellow volunteers.

It is the second time the paper has supported the charity, after raising £2,000 in 2008 and also collecting donations of hats, scarves, gloves and socks.

Editor Sue Smith said: “We were a bit worried that we wouldn’t raise as much money this year as times are tough.

“But the response has been incredible. We have had some big cheques from people who donated their fuel allowance from the government as they didn’t personally need it.

“With temperatures as low as they have been this winter the thought of people sleeping outside is unimaginable.

“We are glad we have been able to help make life a little more comfortable for those in need.”