An independent candidate in an upcoming council by-election has urged his supporters to donate to a local appeal to provide warm clothes for those in need instead of his campaign.
The Pennypit Community Development Trust has launched its Winter Essentials Appeal to provide coats, scarves, gloves and hats to those living in poverty in its local communities.
And Calum Miller, who is standing in the Preston Seton Gosford ward in the East Lothian by-election next month, has asked for money offered to his campaign to be donated instead to the appeal.
Mr Miller, who was the first candidate to declare for the by-election sparked by the death of council leader Willie Innes in October, said many people had offered to support his campaign.
But he said: "Fortunately, I am able to self-fund up to the very limited amount allowed for election expenditure.
"However, other people at this time of year are not so fortunate and I’d be grateful if my supporters would consider supporting a local charity instead."
The Pennypit Trust, which is based in Prestonpans, launched its GoFundMe campaign to help families and vulnerable residents in the Preston, Seton Gosford and neighbouring Fa'side wards this winter.
Making the appeal on the site, Carrie Richmond, from the trust said: "Covid-19 has affected many families in our community, affecting unemployment and household income pushing many more families into poverty this winter.
"The winter months present the greatest health risks to many vulnerable families, adults and elderly who are living in poverty, Many children have to walk to and from school without a coat.
"In some homes there is no heating so wearing a coat inside is the only option to keep warm."
"The average cost of a winter coat for a child is £20, for some this is similar to their weekly income.
"Our mission is to provide free coats and winter essentials to children and adults who are in need. "
The appeal has raised just over £1100 and can be found at https://bit.ly/3IoSEQT
