RESIDENTS struggling to pay their fuel bills are being offered help through a charity appeal.

Knutsford Lions launched their ‘Wenceslas Project’ seven years ago to support families and individuals facing financial hardship.

With energy, inflation and food costs soaring, it is expected that more people than ever may need help.

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The project links the Lions with Citizens Advice and The Welcome to reach those most at risk.

Under the scheme, senior citizens who do not need their winter fuel allowance or the Government’s £400 energy rebate are being asked to make a contribution to help those less fortunate keep warm.

Lion member Peter Willgoose, who has been involved in the scheme since the start, said: “These are very difficult times for a lot of people and donations from everyone, not just senior citizens, will be gratefully received.

”The ‘Wenceslas Project’ is designed to give short term help for those suffering immediate financial hardship rather than providing long term support for paying bills.”

To donate visit justgiving.com/knutsforddistrict-lionsclub’ or send a cheque made payable to ‘Knutsford Lions Charity Account’, endorsed ‘Project Wenceslas’ on the back, to Peter Willgoose, Chestnut Cottage, Tabley Road, Knutsford, WA16 0NE.

If the donor is a tax payer gift aid can be claimed which should increase the donation by 25 per cent.

Gift aid forms are available on request.