A BENEVOLENT organisation staffed by volunteers is looking for further support to help more people in north Durham.

Consett Community Trust, which was launched in January, runs a foodbank, as well supplying clothes, toys and toiletries to people facing hardship.

The group runs from Delves Lane Village Hall and helps needy families in and around the Consett area.

It is the brainchild of local businesswoman Kelly Williamson, and is born out of the successful Christmas appeal she has run for three years to support a nearby refuge and the homeless.

People can get clothes for men, women and children, in return for a donation, if they can afford to, as well as toys, baby items and toiletries.

Miss Williamson said: “The trust is for vulnerable families in the local area. We do not turn anyone away.

“They do not have to be on benefits; they can be on a low income, in financial difficulty or in circumstances beyond their control.

“People outside of that are equally welcome to use our services and to leave us a donation that will help us help those families in need as and when required.

“It is different from a charity shop in that our items are heavily discounted. We ask for a £1 donation for a bag of clothes and if people are not in a position to make that donation then they take them for free.”

Vulnerable families can also sign up for the foodbank, which is not means tested and not subject to a referral.

Miss Williamson said: “This is not a weekly thing. It is a stop gap to help somebody get back on their feet if they are in crisis.”

The trust, which has launched an Easter egg appeal for disadvantaged youngsters, also helps find furniture for people who may find themselves having to move into a new home without the means to furnish it.

It needs help from businesses who may be able to provide transport for collecting and delivering larger items, as well as any stock they may be able to supply or staff they can spare to help out.

To get involved call Miss Williamson on 01207-507-734 or 07931-795-293, email kellywilliamson@btinternet.com or search for Consett Community Trust on Facebook.