A CHILDREN'S bereavement charity based in Worcester is appealing for holidaymakers to donate their unwanted spare change.

People who may have a few odd coins and notes can help the Noah's Ark Trust, which provides support to children, young people and families who have experienced bereavement in the two counties.

The trust is currently running its Towards A Brighter Future appeal - an initiative where your Worcester News is working with the charity to help find it a home in the heart of the community or raise £1 million so it can buy and furnish a property.

The home will then be used by the charity to give the children and families - who may have lost a loved one through cancer, car accidents, suicide or other traumatic circumstances - comfort, support and advice from the trained staff.

Currently, the trust, which celebrated its 10th anniversary this year, is based in Lowes-moor in a business park, but it hopes to find a home it could use on a peppercorn rent.

Gabby Beddows, head of operations, said: "We need to rehouse the charity somewhere where families feel they can come that is safe, inviting and accessible; somewhere that parents and children can have space to grieve and talk without feeling threatened or judged."

Hayley Fowler, marketing and communications co-ordinator, said that any spare change would help towards the appeal, no matter how small the amount. "We welcome any foreign coins and notes, including pesetas, francs, and any old sterling money such as shillings, old pennies that you no longer have a need for.

"Last year, we raised more than £700 in foreign currency and currency no longer in circulation. It's a simple way of supporting your local charity, and we are grateful for every penny," she added.

If you have spare change you can donate, you can take it to its office on 1-4 Canalside, Lowesmoor Wharf, Worcester or, for large amounts, call it on 01905 745735 to arrange collection. If you would like to make a donation to the trust or have any more fund-raising ideas to support their vital work, visit www.noahsarktrust.co.uk.

Readers can view our past stories about the families Noah's Ark has helped or they can watch an emotive film on the subject by visiting www. worcesternews.co.uk and click on the Noah's Ark logo.

A copy of the film is also availble in the Worcester News reception where you can also view some of the stories previously featured in the paper.