FARNHAM Lions’ campaign to ease fuel debt and poverty in the Farnham and Haslemere areas is now well and truly under way.

As in previous years many pensioners have kindly foregone their winter fuel allowances and contributed them to the Lions’ fund such that a sum of £16,900 has already accrued.

Payments to needy clients commenced immediately after the new year and to date 20 clients have had their cases reviewed and have either had their fuel debts wiped out or have received fuel card top-ups.

Meanwhile many more cases are being progressed via the Citizens Advice Bureau, Sure Start and Home/School Link social workers.

The fund is still open to receive donations until the end of February. However, the payments will continue until all the funds are spent which will probably take three or four months.

All payments are made on behalf of clients direct to their relevant fuel utility companies so that donors can be reassured that every penny goes to the advertised purpose of fuel cost relief.

Michael Thom of the Lions Club of Farnham said: “Farnham Lions are most appreciative of the support received from The Herald group and Riverprint for their valuable sponsorship of this excellent cause and are especially grateful to the numerous donors who have helped to make the Wenceslas Project such a practical contribution to the needs of the community in both Farnham and Haslemere.”