A CANCER charity is asking the public to contribute to a "line of gold" that will mark the edges of a shopping centre.

Wessex Cancer Trust has teamed up with Castlepoint Shopping Centre, Bournemouth, are encouraging shoppers to save up one pound coins to raise a goal of £22,500.

The event comes after the support service launched a crisis appeal to raise £600,000 by the end of January or it could be forced to close.

The charity, which has been supporting local families for almost 40 years, has seen a 30 percent increase in demand for its services this year.

After they were then hit by a 65 percent reduction in people leaving a gift in their will and a decline in the high street, they fell into their first crisis.

For the event, they aim to fill 500 metres from Asda to Sainsbury’s on Saturday January 25 and Sunday 26.

Maria Tidy, Wessex Cancer Trust’s community engagement manager for Dorset, said: “All those pound coins add up, so please empty your pockets, hunt down the back of the sofa and scour your handbag or car. Save up your coins and come and join us at Castlepoint Shopping Park to see how far we can stretch the line of gold."

David Pickett, Castlepoint Shopping Park’s centre manager, said: “Wessex Cancer Trust provides a vital service to the local community and Castlepoint is delighted to be working with them to help raise these vital funds.

"It’s going to be amazing to see how far we can get along the walkway, as every inch could make a difference to so many local people.”

Coins can also be added virtually to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/maria-tidy5.

Wessex Cancer Trust is also looking for entertainers and volunteers for the event.

To help, contact Maria at maria.tidy@wessexcancer.org.uk or call 07471 217693.