AN APPEAL launched by an Oswestry school has seen a huge influx of donated coats which are set to be handed out to people who need them most.

Before Christmas, Year 9 students at the Marches School, as part of the terms focus on the topic of ‘kindness’ launched an appeal for donations of coats.

Since the appeal was launched, coats of all shapes and sizes have been donated to the school by students, parents, staff and members of the community.

To ensure no-one goes cold in the winter weather, the Marches School and Oswestry-based Qube are teaming up to run a two-day coat drive at the school reception.

This will take place between 10am and 2pm on Friday, January 31 and Saturday, February 1 between 10am and midday.

People in need of a coat are urged to go along and collect one free of charge, and any coats that are not claimed on the day will be donated to charity.

Sian Newey, head of academic progress for Year 9, said the staff and pupils are grateful to the donations received so far.

She added: “Charity is not just about how much money we can raise but also about the difference we can make.

“Our Year 9 students and the school community have really got behind the appeal.

“We thank everyone who has donated to the campaign and hope that this act of kindness will make a difference to the lives of those less fortunate in the community.”