A REDDITCH charity that has been saved from the brink of closure has thanked the public and local businesses for their support.

Carers Careline aims to provide a health, mental and emotional support to unpaid carers in the Redditch area.

In recent months, Ecumenical Centre based charity was facing the devastating prospect of having to close after almost 30 years of service due to funding cuts.

Its current grant from the Big Lottery Fund came to an end on July 31 and the charity is still struggling to secure funding elsewhere.

So far, one job has been axed but fortunately, for the time being, another three have been retained.

Since then the community have rallied around to support the charity through donations and fundraising events.

The Redditch Advertiser carried the story on its front page on June 29.

Chief officer Fiona Mitchell said: "As a result from that article the response has been really positive from the local community.

"We are very grateful and want to say thank you to members of the community for their donations - it all helps to keep us going.

"I for one have been overwhelmed by the response.

"We still need financial support, but for the time being we are here and offering the service."

One kind-heart Redditch resident,unpaid carer Donna Giles, whose two children Nathan, aged 20 and Cerys, 13, have cerebral palsy, saw the article and wanted to do something to help.

After talking with Carewatch staff, who provide home care and support for her children, together they came up with a "Christmas In August" fundraiser, where staff donned festive hats on August 23, 24 and 25.

Donations are still flooding in but the event is expected to raise in excess of £200.

Mrs Giles said: "When the team heard that a valuable support to unpaid carers, like myself, could be at risk of closing they decided they (Carewatch) wanted to try to help.

"It would be really difficult as being at home is really isolating and they do monthly telephone calls and as well as offer support and advice. "

"It is a vital service if it was to finish due to lack of funding that would be a real shame," she added.

For more information or to support the organisation contact Fiona Mitchell at Carers Careline on 01527 66177 or email info@carerscareline.co.uk.