Valerie explained her involvement: ‘If you don’t feel that you need your winter fuel allowance please donate to this wonderful initiative to help a local older person in need. It is shocking that many older people are at risk and often suffer in silence, having to choose between heating or eating. As little as £200 can save someone’s life.’

Since the re-launch of the Appeal in November the Foundation has raised nearly £23,000 in donations. The money raised is dispersed in the form of grants through the local Citizens Advice Bureau network to local older people over 60 who are struggling during the winter months.

Mrs Lyle, who received support from the Appeal explained: ‘It sometimes felt like being sat in a prison because you are stuck in one room to keep warm. The Dorset Community Foundation’s Surviving Winter Appeal enabled me to put my heating on and gave me the freedom to sleep in my own bed as appose to the settee. Most importantly, you stopped me from having to go back into hospital and helped me live a life in the winter.’

To find out more about the Appeal, or to donate please click here.