Thanks for help with Surviving Christmas

The response was staggering and I was able to take bags and bags crammed full of new, warm socks to Surviving Christmas on Christmas Day.

We all agreed that the number of pairs donated was the most ever and probably in the region of 1,200 which is fantastic.

Everyone who attended the Christmas charity’s three-day hospitality and good cheer event at the YMCA was offered a pair of socks, a most practical gift for those living on the streets or in cold conditions.

My special thanks to the United Reformed Church, Robertson Street, Hastings and to the Information Centre (Queens Square, Hastings), where the “Sox Boxes” were located.

Thank you to the Observer for the useful publicity you gave to the appeal and thank you, of course, to the generous people of Hastings and St Leonards who were prepared to give willingly despite the hard times in which we live.

Finally, a big thank you to all who help with Surviving Christmas. These people are angels - giving up their own festive season for the benefit of those less fortunate than themselves.

May I wish you all a very happy and peaceful New Year and no doubt the Sock Appeal will still be needed for Christmas 2011 - a salutary thought.

CLLR RICHARD STEVENS Hastings Town Hall