PEOPLE across Redbridge have been urged to put their hands in their pockets to help support the elderly during the cold snap.

Many charity shops have seen a big drop in revenue over the past week as the snowy conditions have kept customers away - and have called on big-hearted residents to give them the extra support they need to fill the gap.

Age Concern and Help the Aged estimate they have lost more than £500,000 because of the cold weather, at a time when the charities are more desperate for funds than ever to provide help for pensioners during the big freeze.

Journalist Fiona Phillips has helped launch a new appeal for funds for Age Concern - which runs a lunch club from the Old Fire Station in Wanstead, and other services across the borough.

She said: "I am asking your readers to urgently visit their local Age Concern and Help the Aged charity shops and give generously to stop them losing crucial funds because of the recent cold snap.

"The charity relies on generous donations from the public to stock their shops and fund their vital work, but due to bad weather charity collection vans have been unable to pick up donations.

"In addition shops have had to shut and the ones that do open have seen much reduced business and a decrease in people bringing in goods.

"The money raised from selling donations is used to improve the lives of older people in many ways, from running lunch clubs and offering benefits advice to lobbying Government.

"Donations to your local shop as soon as possible will help the charity continue its fantastic work - good quality clothing, accessories, books and CDs will be warmly welcomed."

For more information visit: ageconcern.org.uk.