THE Wenceslas campaign to ease fuel debt and fuel poverty has already helped 20 needy families in the Farnham and Haslemere areas this year.

Now in its fourth year, the Lions appeal asks better off pensioners to donate their Winter Fuel Allowance to the Lions’ fund and already £16,900 has been given.

Farnham Lions Club spokesman Michael Thom said: “Payments to needy clients started 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 CAB, Sure Start and home/school link social workers.”

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

Mr Thom explained: “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.”

He added: “Farnham Lions are most appreciative of the valuable sponsorship from The Herald group and Riverprint, 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.”

Donations at www.justgiving.com/lions-wenceslas or send cheques endorsed “WFP” on back to: Lion Treasurer, 2 Birdhaven, Sandrock Hill Road, Farnham, GU10 4PB.