A liberal sprinkling of magic - in the form of charity cash - will bring hope to those who need it most, thanks to the Mayor's Christmas Fund Appeal.

The Lantern, Soul Food Soup Kitchen and food banks on both Weymouth and Portland are just a few of the local good causes to receive funds raised by cllr Gill Taylor, Mayor of Weymouth & Portland, and Weymouth & Portland Lions Club.

The Christmas Fund Appeal is an annual collaboration between the Mayor and the Lions, using the club's extensive network of contacts to make sure help reaches those who need it the most.

It was set up to help community organisations support those who have fallen on hard times or are vulnerable.

Other causes to receive a share of the fundraising pot include the Dorset Blind Association, Samaritans, Melcombe Day Hospital, Safewise, the Bus Shelter, Dorset Echo Toy Appeal, Steps, Julian House and the Veterans Hub.

Roger Hogbin, president of Weymouth & Portland Lions Club, said that every penny raised by the Christmas Fund Appeal goes directly to supporting worthwhile local causes.

"Weymouth and Portland Lions are delighted to work with the mayor and support these very worthwhile local causes", he said.

"Our thanks go to those who will be spending the funds on helping those less fortunate than ourselves".

Cllr Gill Taylor, Mayor of Weymouth & Portland asked the Dorset Echo to extend her thanks to everyone who contributed to the Christmas Fund.

The mayor said she would particularly like to thank the many anonymous donors whose gifts she has been unable to acknowledge.

Cllr Taylor said: "It was an absolute pleasure to be able to distribute this fund - it gave me the opportunity to meet and listen to so many people from voluntary organisations in the borough.

"There were many fascinating stories of people who work quietly in the background, supporting the residents of Weymouth and Portland in various ways.

"I would like to thank all those who donated this year - individuals and organisations have been so generous".