A fund-raising appeal us-ing specially-designed beer mats to urge drinkers to donate to a children's charity this Christmas is not going as well as expected.

Since Acorns launched the appeal in October, only a few hundred pounds have been raised for the charity, which cares for life-limited children and their families from across the region.

Acorns has a hospice in Worcester's Bath Road.

About 100,000 mats, asking drinkers to donate £3 by texting the word ACORNS to 84858 were distributed to pubs and clubs across the Midlands, including Worces-terhire. But assistant director of fund-raising, Robert Jinks said the response had not been as good as they had hoped. "Although we have had money back, it's probably not as much as we would hope for. The party spirit is in full flow so if people could help us over the next few days when they are out enjoying themselves we would be very grateful.

"Donating £3 is the same as buying a drink and could help care for a local life-limited children in our Worcester hospice," said Mr Jinks.

Publicans and restaurant owners are being asked to show their support for the campaign by putting out the special beer mats over the festive period.

Last year's Acorns Christ-mas appeal raised more than £500,000 for the charity and this year has seen a lack of funds force the closure of four beds in three of its hospices.

If you are a landlord or club manager who would like a supply of the mats for your outlet call Mr Jinks on 01564 825039/07812 593 526 or e-mail robert.jinks@acorns.org.uk To donate to Acorns call its freephone number on 08451 206892.