A NEW hardship fund launched a week ago with support from the Herald has received an additional boost from Lee Moran, the founder of the popular Facebook group Farnham Rants.

The Farnham Coronavirus Support Fund, which was set up by Farnham Town Council, the Farnham Maltings and a number of voluntary organisations, aims to donate funds and emergency assistance to Farnham people who are facing hardship caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

Lee agreed to help publicise the fundraising appeal to the 25,000-plus Rants members in an attempt to help the fund reach its £50,000 target. His support will also help to extend awareness of the fund to more people in need.

In the opening days since the fund’s launch, it has already attracted almost £3,000 in donations – on top of the original £22,000 contributed by Farnham Town Council and Farnham organisations to start the fund.

Councillor Pat Evans, the mayor of Farnham, said: “In the first few days after the fund was launched, we received a number of applications from people who need help.

"Alongside these requests for help, we have also attracted donations of nearly £2,500 from the generous people of Farnham. This is on top of the original £22,000 that was contributed by Farnham Town Council and Farnham organisations to start the fund.

“Every additional pound raised will go to a Farnham person in need of urgent assistance such as help with paying for gas/electricity or the replacement of an essential kitchen appliance such as a cooker.”

The Herald understands the first donation was made this week following a referral by Surrey Adult Social Care via charity Farnham ASSIST. The fund’s referral panel will meet once a week to discuss applications for grants of up to £300 each and how best to support those in need.

The Farnham Lions is helping to coordinate donations through its Just Giving page www.justgiving.com/campaign/farnham-coronavirus

Details about how to donate and further information can be found at www.farnham.gov.uk/supportfund