Maidstone Salvation Army need £2,600 by the end of the month as part of an urgent appeal to send local children, who would not otherwise get a holiday, to a summer camp.

Generous donors have already raised £3,400 this month - more than half the money needed to send 40 disadvantaged children on a five-day activity break in Sussex, which allows the youngsters to take part in sports and crafts in an environment designed to boost their self-esteem.

Each place costs £350, most of which is subsidised by the Salvation Army and parents, but the charity needs to raise another £150 per child by the end of this month.

Captain Lynne Clifton of Maidstone Salvation Army Church and Community Centre said: “We are very grateful to many local individuals as well as community groups such as Maidstone Lions Club and businesses such as Ye Olde Thirsty Pig Public House who have generously donated to this important appeal.

“If you would like to be part of this fundraising effort that will make a huge impact on the lives of children who are facing some challenging situations then please don’t hesitate to get in touch.”

Donations should be in an envelope marked “Summer Camp Appeal”, addressed to Captain Lynne Clifton, Family Ministry Officer, Maidstone Salvation Army, 74-80 Union Street, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 1ED.

Cheques payable to The Salvation Army. Alternatively visit www.justgiving.com/lsecamp