Help those in need this Christmas and donate at Southport Theatre and Convention Centre.

This Christmas. Southport Theatre and Convention Centre is making it easy to help those who are in need; simply pop into the foyer and drop your donation under the Christmas tree.

The venue is working with local charities and churches to ensure that all items go to make Christmas a special time for those who are in need of a helping hand, with 'Winter Warmer' sets for the homeless and non-perishable food items.

Life on the streets is difficult at any time of the year but the winter weather makes it particularly harsh. A 'Winter Warmer' set of hat, scarf and gloves can make a real difference. The sets will be distributed by Shoreline Church, whose work with the homeless through the Street Pastors scheme is vital, providing a lifeline to people on the streets.

In addition, the theatre welcomes donations of non-perishable food items which will be passed on to Southport Foodbank to be used in food parcels during the New Year. John Sullivan who is the Manager of Southport Foodbank said: "We have seen a sudden uplift in the number of people who are using our foodbank over the last three months and we have been struggling to keep our warehouse stocked. Any donation, however small, is helpful to us, and we know from past experience that the community always pulls together to help those in need, particularly over the festive period." Items which are currently in particular need are coffee, long life orange juice (1 litre), long life milk (1 litre), rice pudding, dried rice, tins of cold meat (eg corned beef, ham), tins of tomatoes, cereal, tea and cook-in sauces. Donations of toiletries are also welcome, including soap, shampoo, tooth paste and nappies.

All these items may be donated until the end of the family pantomime, Snow White, on 31st December,

Southport Theatre and Convention Centre General Manager called Lisa Chu said: "We're so pleased to be working with the local community to support their work at this special time. We hope that people coming to the venue will be inspired to add an extra item to their shopping list and bring it along to those in need."

Donations can be made during a visit to the theatre to see Snow White, this year's spectacular Christmas pantomime, from now until 31st December. Alternatively, please just pop into the foyer between our Box Office opening hours, 11am to 4pm, Monday-Saturday.