THE FREE SHOP in The Hub at Petersfield rail station has launched a Winter Warmers appeal for coats, hats, gloves and scarfs.

The move comes as gas and electric prices soar and some people face the harsh choice between heating or eating.

All sizes of items are needed (shoes are not accepted) and can be dropped off at Winton House in the High Street until this Friday (October 14) from 9.30am to 3.30pm, or at The Hub on Saturday from midday to 5pm.

The donated items will be given out on Sunday (October 16) and Monday (October 17) from 10am to 2pm on both days.

Until now the Free Shop has focused on distributing donated food and produce and second-hand school uniforms to help those struggling to cope.

Hub volunteer Lucy Lomax said: “Following the growing demand for surplus food and uniform at the Free Shop, we are creating a two-day pop-up shop for visitors to donate and pick up any good-quality coats, hats, gloves and scarves.

“Any surplus will go to local charities that work with the homeless and families in crisis.”

The Hub, in the former parcels office at the station, opened in October 2021 after a £45,000 refurbishment by rail company SWR.

It is overseen by East Hampshire Community Rail Partnership and run by volunteers.

For more information send an email to Lucy at lucy@
hampshirecommunityrail.co.uk