OUR Shuttle Run charity appeal to support Wyre Forest's homeless has surpassed the £1,000 mark in its first week.

To celebrate The Shuttle's 150th anniversary, we have teamed up with local homeless charity HELP to raise £10,000 to buy a van for volunteers to collect and deliver donations to the most vulnerable people in our community - and we have been blown away by the response.

In its first week, the campaign has welcomed more than £1,400 via its Just Giving page, cheques and bank transfers.

HELP founder Dave Griffin said: "We’re delighted with the total so far, it’s doing really well – even better than we thought it would!

“I always thought it would do well, but not so well straight away. People have already been marvellous.”

It's a great start, but we still need your help to reach our fundraising goal.

Kidderminster Shuttle:

Money from The Shuttle Run appeal will buy HELP its own vehicle to transport food, clothing, bedding, toiletries and furniture for people in need across the district.

It will also mean the charity can accept larger donations like furniture and appliances to help homeless people get back on their feet.

Shuttle editor Stephanie Preece said: “We are absolutely delighted with the fantastic response our readers have given so far – but it’s important to remember it is just a start.

“I’d like to thank everyone who has contributed so far, but also want to urge anyone else who can support our appeal to do so and help make The Shuttle Run a huge success.”

Donations can be made online by clicking here. Cheques can be sent to Kidderminster Shuttle, Second Floor, Copthall House, 1 New Road, Stourbridge DY8 1PH. Make them payable to HELP and write SHUTTLE RUN on the back.

Bank transfers should go to HELP, Lloyds Bank, account number 38430260, sort code 30-91-91.

Could you, your school or business hold a fundraising event for The Shuttle Run appeal? It could be a charity auction, a bake sale or even a sponsored skydive.

The Shuttle will be running stories each week as we get closer to our target, so email emily.collis@newsquest.co.uk and let us know how you’re supporting the appeal!