A WOMAN who is looking to give rough sleepers a helping hand this Christmas has smashed her fundraising target – thanks to the generosity of the public.

Samantha Daynes, 40, has been receiving cash donations to make up to 40 rucksacks, full of essentials, to hand out to the homeless in Slough. Her target was £400 which would allow the rucksacks to be filled with items, including toiletries, hats, scarves, food and drink.

But Miss Daynes, of Cippenham, has now surpassed the target – raising £780 at the time this story went to press. She says she will now be able to make up at least 70 rucksacks, which she will pass on to charity, Slough Homeless Our Concern (SHOC).

Miss Daynes, who works for the Commonwealth War Graves Commission in Maidenhead, said: “I’m really, really chuffed because people keep saying ‘well done’ but actually it wouldn’t have been possible without people from Windsor, Slough and Burnham who have all come forward with the donations of cash.”

Miss Daynes still needs donations of rucksacks from people – as she currently has only around 30. These can be handed over to her, so long as in a good condition, and means she can spend more of the cash on quality items to go inside the rucksacks.

To donate of a rucksack, call 01628 507102. If you would still like to donate items visit www.justgiving.com and in the search box type Samantha Daynes.