MAYOR Paul Kimber urged people to defy the recession to help those less fortunate this Christmas.

He has launched his Mayor’s Christmas Fund appeal with the Lions Club in aid of good causes in Weymouth and Portland.

Coun Kimber said: “During the festive season, our thoughts turn to the many activities we enjoy as a community and the charitable organisations who work tirelessly to give hope and encouragement to those less fortunate.”

He added: “I personally implore anyone in the borough who is able to support my fund this year to do so.

“Regretfully in the current climate, I feel that we will receive more requests for assistance. “Last year saw a fantastic number of donations, amounting to just over £2,000 which enabled us to offer a small gift or aid to alleviate the suffering of some. “Although we are in difficult times, I know I can rely on you all so that we are able to continue to help those in need.

“Thank you for your kindness and generosity.”

The Mayor’s Christmas Fund charity appeal is run with the Lions Club, which has a well established network of local contacts.

Every penny of the fund stays in the local community for worthy causes.

Norman Apps, from Weymouth and Portland Lions Club, said: “I would like to thank everyone for their donations last year.

“It is only with your kindness that we are able to make this time of year a little easier for those in our community in the greatest need. “In this time of cutbacks and financial insecurities, for many it is only with your ongoing goodwill to the Mayor’s Fund you’ll be helping us to help you support those in borough which need it most.”

Last Christmas, money raised was used to help individuals and groups.

Money was spent on such causes as: * Christmas lunches for vulnerable youngsters and the elderly.

* Second-hand household items for people in hardship.

* Help with hire costs of a meeting venue for a disabled group.

* Support for a fundraising picnic for Friends of Rodwell Trail.

* Funding for a Sing-a-long project for elderly people.

* Support for a bereaved young family.

* Help in travel costs for young and disabled people.

Donations, however big or small, from individuals or businesses should be sent to Mayor’s Christmas Fund Appeal, Council Offices, North Quay, DT4 8TA.

They can also be dropped in at the council’s reception desk where appeal envelopes are available. All donations will be acknowledged, unless the donor asks to remain anonymous.

Any individuals, groups, or organisations who want to benefit from the fund are asked to write to the council address.