A family support charity based in Petersfield has said a big “thank you” as they’ve received a massive Christmas present from its generous supporters.

HomeStart Butser has nearly met its match as a festive campaign to double £20,000 of donations may have been achieved by the time you read this.

The charity – which supports struggling and vulnerable families on both sides of Butser – set the ambitious target in the annual Big Give campaign with any donations made between December 2 and 9 being match-funded.

But they were less than £1,200 short before the weekend with total standing at nearly £38,000 on December 5. Should they reach £40,000, the figure will cover a fifth of their required income.

“People often save their money for the campaign and they’re so generous, but it takes a lot of 50s, 100s and 1,000s to reach that amount,” said HSB project manager, Nicola Winter.

“We’re supporting the highest number of families locally we’ve ever had and we’ve really expanded the reach.

“And when you think about the all the people that are moving into Horndean over the next few years it means we’re going to help even more.

“We’re really looking to do more in the southern area of our patch because you know there are some families that will benefit from our support.”

The team also want to thank The Spice Lounge, Clavio Lounge, KJ Smith Solicitors, Petersfield Lions, Steep Bonfire committee and Liss firm, Butcher and Larder, among others for their support and generosity.

Petersfield Infants and Ditcham Park pupils have also shown their class by taking part in sponsored Reindeer Runs for the charity.

“There’s no government money or statutory funding so the support we get is vital,” added Nicola.

“We’re thanking them all because they are making a difference, and every penny we get helps.”

People can donate to their Big Give appeal via https://donate.biggive.org/campaign/a05WS000005ZzloYAC