DEBENHAMS in Haverfordwest is pledging to help those in poverty this winter by donating out-of-season stock to the local charity PATCH (Pembrokeshire Action to Combat Hardship).

With the weather set to take a turn for the worst, Debenhams is encouraging customers to also donate their unwanted clothes to the charity, which helps those in financial difficulties access warm clothing, making sure nobody goes cold this winter.

Whether it’s a warm coat that is two sizes too small, or a woolly hat which was an unwelcome Christmas present, Customer Services at Debenhams, Haverfordwest will be happy to take them in, as long as it is in a wearable condition. The store will also be donating warm clothes from last season.

Tracy Olin, PATCH Co-ordinator, said: "The team are extremely grateful for the donation; this will make such a difference to those in a financial crisis in Pembrokeshire. We love giving new clothing to those who can’t afford ‘such a luxury’ and sadly new clothing is a luxury for some. We are overwhelmed by your generosity."

PATCH works throughout Pembrokeshire, setting up food banks to provide support to an individual or families in a crisis situation, along with providing warm clothing to those in need.

David Lodge, sales manager at Debenhams Haverfordwest, said: “As a high-street store, we are well-placed in the community to help those who are unlucky enough to go without warm clothes in the winter months. PATCH is a fantastic, worthwhile initiative and I hope that our customers will join us by donating unwanted clothes. Like most people, I know I have plenty of warm clothes that I no longer wear, so I'll definitely be donating."

The Debenhams colleagues are hoping for a great response from the community and together with the store stock donation hope it will make a great difference to those in need this winter.

Last year, PATCH donated warm clothing to more than 600 local people.