Exceptional generosity was shown by shoppers on Saturday helping to raise £1,300 for Cirencester Signpost.

Volunteers were collecting in the town to raise funds to support the most vulnerable in the community this winter with a core focus on homelessness prevention.

Chairman Graham Harris said: "A young man came to one of our Good Neighbour meals earlier in the month and shared that he may be losing his home in the New Year. We are assisting him to get the help he needs and it inspired us to concentrate our fundraising efforts on preventing homelessness as everyone deserves a roof over their head and a safe place to call home."

The money raised will be used to help oversee their three weekly 'drop in' sessions where not only are hot meals provided but there is a time to talk and be listened to.

Guests can bring in letters that they may have difficulty in understanding or simply ask for a helping hand.

Graham added: "Creating a sense of belonging is important and on behalf of all those who come to us and those who will do in the future, my heartfelt thanks to everyone for your contribution and helping to turn lives around this Christmas."