A FAMILY support charity has raised more than £700 to help children facing hardship.

Home-Start Ryedale, in Norton, organised the Snowflake Appeal during December and January to support families in the area who are struggling to cope.

The latest event, a coffee morning, raised £266.84.

Jo Oliver, senior co-ordinator with the charity, said: “We had a good attendance on the day and there was a proper buzz about the place.

“Overall, we have raised the grand sum of £747.05 for the Snowflake Appeal, which is amazing.

“We would like to thank St Peter’s Church for their generous donation, along with the carol singers of Sherburn for their fundraising efforts.

“We would also like to thank our trustees and volunteers for all their support throughout the appeal which we will be running annually.”

The charity, which supports families with young children who maybe be experiencing difficulties and in need of some support and friendship, is also looking to recruit new home-visiting volunteers across Ryedale.

Jo said: “People who are looking for a new challenge for the New Year and would like to help families for a couple of hours a week should consider joining Home-Start Ryedale.

“We will be starting a new volunteer preparation course at the beginning of March, so would encourage anyone interested to get in touch.”

Jo said the charity also needed people with a flair for fundraising to join the Friends of Home-Start, a group of people who enjoy organising fun events and activities such as coffee mornings and raffles aimed at raising awareness of the work of the charity as well as much-needed funds.

“It’s a great way to get out of the house and do something positive whilst enjoying yourself,” she said.

For more information, contact Home-Start Ryedale at 43 Parliament Street, Norton, phone 01653 693551 or email HSRyedale@googlemail.com