When Ross-on-Wye resident Samantha Iliff saw an article about people decorating trees with hats, gloves and scarves for homeless people in America she was impressed at how a simple idea could be so helpful.

She is a member of the Help in Ross Facebook group and had a few unwanted scarves herself.

She decided to put a note on each item to let people know they are not ’lost’ and suggesting that anyone who needs them can take them. She then placed them on the railing by the Market House. Samantha told the Ross Gazette, "I know there are a few homeless people who may be glad of something warm to wear but they might also be useful for an older person or even a child who is cold."

Samantha is hoping other people will add to the warm items so that there is always something available for anyone who needs it during the festive season. In the New Year any items which have not been claimed will be donated to EnviroAbility.

If anyone wishes to make a donation to help young homeless people then the following items can be left at the Foyer, December House, Ross-on-Wye on Wednesday, December 7th, between 10.30am and 1.30pm. The collection is being organised by Hoople Recruitment in partnership with Kemble Housing’s Supported Housing for Young People Project (SHYPP), to provide help for the homeless this winter.

· Sleeping bags and bedding (must be new for health and safety reasons)

· Tents

· Blankets

· Torches

· Rucksacks

· Clothing and shoes (no underwear please)

· Coats, hats, scarves and gloves

· Toiletries: shower gel, shampoo, toothbrushes/toothpaste, deodorant, hairbrushes or combs, razors and shaving foam, sanitary towels/tampons, flannels or sponges and baby/face wipes

· Tinned food (preferably ringpull) and soft drinks (canned or bottled)

· Pocket diaries