A CHURCH is lending a helping hand to homeless people as winter approaches.

Members of St Bartholomew's Church in Sealand are collecting 'survival packs' that will be distributed among the homeless as conditions outside harshen in the coming months.

The packs include socks, underwear, hats, gloves, toiletries, trousers, coats and blankets, and have so far and will continue to be handed out in Chester, Mold and Wrexham.

The church have been holding a series a charity events to raise money for the packs, and many of the items have also been donated through members of the church.

So far, the church has handed out 12 packs to homeless people across the region.

Bernadette Griffiths, who is organising the scheme alongside Barbara Hinds, said: ''We're very passionate about helping those who are less fortunate than ourselves, no matter who big or small we want to make a difference to someone's life.

''And this is a practical way of helping those who are in need of the help. If a homeless person has to choose between getting a meal and buying some gloves in freezing conditions, what we're doing may help get them the things they need to survive.''

With winter fast approaching, St Bartholomew's are appealing for more donations, either in terms of items or monetary. Those wanting to make a monetary donation can do so by contacting the church treasurer, Barbara Hinds, on 01244 880533.