In this bleak mid-winter, a shaft of sunlight has fallen on the finances of the Rotary Club of Gloucester thanks to its members and local supporters.

In the run up to Christmas, the club organised three money raising events - a Tree of Light in Eastgate Street, a Santa Fun Run and collections in and around the city and at a Hucclecote superstore.

These three events together with the generosity of club Rotarians who have donated accumulated money in the club's lunch account since the club stopped meeting last March, have meant an increase of £10,074 has flowed into the club's charity coffers.

Since the club has already spent or earmarked £15,000 to help other local charities which are strapped for cash during the pandemic, the additional funds will be extremely welcome.

To date the Tree of Light has raised nearly £2,900, with donations predominantly from city-based sponsors.

The virtual Santa Fun Run which was supported by 300 local people brought in more than £1,600, and the collections in the streets and at the store netted a further £1,170. Street collections took place in Longford, Abbeydale and Brockworth.

Club president Richard Wright said he was delighted how well the media had promoted the events and the way in which local people had supported the club once again.

"Despite the understandable gloom and doom this year local folk once again showed through their generosity that they still care for others not so fortunate as themselves," he added.