OVER a thousand items of clothing were distributed to those in need this winter thanks to kind-hearted people across the borough.

The Winter Warmer appeal, organised by the Saleem Foundation, has seen schools, workplaces and organisations donate blankets, gloves, hats, scarves and hot drinks sachets since its launch last month.

The appeal came to a heartwarming conclusion at a special event at Champions Church in Brierley Hill on December 10, where over 100 people in need were given a helping hand.

Volunteers made sure people had a warm meal with soup kitchen while much-needed essentials were handed out at the event, which followed the success of the United Hands soup kitchen in September.

The team from Kelly's Nails in Old Hill were also on hand to offer their services free of charge.

Shaz Saleem, founder of the charity, said he was blown away with the volume of donations the appeal received.

He said: “What makes this campaign special is that those that donated were helping people they've never heard of. This is what we should be doing, helping people with no other motive other than the fact we care.

"It was a beautiful evening and I thank every person involved, whether they donated items or volunteered on the night.

"People left smiling and that was a humbling experience. It's important we all support one another. Before anything we are human.”