Ref. 72991-29VOLUNTEERS at a project which helps spread festive cheer among homeless people in Swindon are gearing up for this year's campaign.

They are appealing for more volunteers and donations to help ensure the Christmas Cares project is a success.

Nurse Betty Spence first opened a festive shelter for people living on the streets 16 years ago.

Staffed by Betty, Patsy Moloney and a team of volunteers, the organisation relies on donations of money, food, clothing, toiletries and bedding to give clients a few nights of comfort.

The Methodist Church in Queens Drive is the venue for the shelter and last year it housed more than 120 people over each of the four nights it was open.

Christmas Day and Boxing Day saw 70 turkey dinners served to guests, many of whom left with goodie bags when the centre closed several days later.

Joint secretary Mr Moloney, 61, of Park North, said: "I love to see people happy, especially at Christmas time it gives me a real buzz.

"When I walk through the town I hear people call out my name and they come up to shake my hand and say thanks. It makes me feel 10ft tall.

"We give up our Christmas for this but Christmas wouldn't be as good for me without it."

Mr Moloney is now busy contacting businesses and groups in the town to encourage people to make donations.

It costs thousands of pounds to fund the services and volunteers are needed to staff the shelter 24 hours a day.

"Fundraising gets harder each year, with so many charities and good causes appealing for help," said Mr Moloney.

"The project depends entirely on voluntary donations to survive."

This year guests will benefit from a newly-installed £800 cooker and food is given out at any time of the day.

The shelter will run from 4pm on Christmas Eve until 11am on December 28.

Anyone who is willing to give up some time between these dates can call 01793 485483.

For more information call 01793 642368.

Donations can be made at the church on December 16, 17 and 21 between 7pm and 9pm and during the day on December 18.

From next month, donations can also be handed over to reception at the Information Centre in Regent Street.

And a volunteers meeting will be held at the church on November 17, starting at 7.30pm. Anyone interested is welcome to attend.

Ben Payne