A GROUP of jobseekers from Chard and Taunton have presented a homeless shelter with a cheque for £428.

The group, who all have disabilities, are being supported to look for work by Social Enterprise, Plus.

They raised the money for Open Door in Taunton by doing a 7.6 mile sponsored walk along the Taunton and Bridgwater Canal. For some this is the furthest they have ever walked.

They were concerned by the sharp rise in the number of homeless people sleeping on the streets of Taunton. This is currently about 25 people which is high for a small county town.

Mark Woodcock, of open door, said: “What strikes me most is their thoughtfulness and concern. These are guys who face incredible challenges of their own so to come up with the idea, come to talk to me to find out what we need, and their cheerfulness; it’s just fantastic.

“This is the most important thing for me; the thought and care behind it. The fact they’ve raised over £420 is a double bonus.

“We will use the money to buy essential clothing such as socks and boxer shorts. Also fresh food.”