IT helps people in their time of need and now a Winchester charity is getting a boost this Christmas.

Winchester Churches Nightshelter received £2,500 thanks to Winchester Round Table and the proceeds of bucket collections at November’s bonfire night.

The money was collected during the procession through the High Street, Jewry Street and North Walls, as well as at entrances to the event at the recreation ground.

The money was handed over yesterday.

Michele Price, manager of the nightshelter, said it will be put towards revamping floors in residents’ bedrooms.

“It is fantastic because it shows how much the people of Winchester are trying to support a local charity,” she said.

“I am always saying you never know when you are going to be homeless, you never expect it and it can happen to anyone, so to have the support of the people of Winchester is great.

“We are looking to improve some of the flooring. We are hoping that it will go towards that in the spring.” Chris MacKenzie, of the bonfire committee, said it is a big leap from the £1,000 the bucket collections raised last year.

“The exact amount was £2,479.86 but it seems careless not to do a round number so we rounded it up to £2,500,” he said.

“It’s a local charity that people recognise. When it gets cold and dark outside I think everyone really appreciates the benefit of having a roof over their heads and the fantastic work that the night shelter does to help people get into accommodation.

“Any cash that we raise, as soon as costs are covered, goes to local charities. This year we raised over £40,000 which is fantastic seeing as it was wet.”