A man in Barrow has shared his story to encourage people to donate to this year's Winter Warmth Appeal.

This month, the annual fund was once again launched as a reminder to Cumbrians that many older people in the region are facing a season of potentially deadly cold.

Organised by the Cumbria Community Foundation, it is hoped that locals will give the appeal their support and help ensure no one has to choose between heating and eating, amid fears there will be extra hardship this winter.

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One such person who was supported by the Appeal last year was Terrance Abba, a 72-year-old man who lives in Barrow.

He said: "There are seven months through the year when it’s cold, so this payment is very helpful.

"Otherwise, for me, it’s a choice to put my heating on or have a warm meal.

“Last year the payment meant I could split it up and have some food and put the heating on when I really need it.”

Terrance is hoping his story can convince people to donateTerrance is hoping his story can convince people to donate (Image: Intro PR)

Between 300 and 500 older people die in Cumbria every because of problems related to not being able to afford to heat their home, with fears that this number could be even higher in 2024.

The Foundation has run the Appeal since 2010, raising more than £2.5million in total in the process.

Read more: Walney Island pensioner praises 'life saver' winter fund | The Mail

Last year, over £315,000 was awarded in grants – through delivery partners Age UK and Copeland Age and Advice Service – benefitting a total of 1,941 vulnerable older people across the county.

In 2024, the hope is to bring in at least £500,000, which will then be redistributed to those most in need, to allow them to stay warm without worrying about the cost.

If you would like to donate to the Appeal, then you can visit the website here.

Alternatively, donations can be made by cheque or phone - to make a phone donation, you can ring 01900 825760 between the hours of 9am-5pm.

A match funding challenge will run from Monday, November 11 to Friday, December 13.

During this period, anyone who donates will have their donation doubled, thanks to the generosity of match funding champions, who this year include Electricity North West, WCF Ltd, and Cumberland and Westmorland and Furness Councils.