A BUSINESS has challenged the people of Basingstoke to again back its Christmas appeal

The annual Access Self Storage Christmas Charity Appeal is now open, with residents and businesses invited to drop off toys, biscuits and chocolates at the Rankine Road facility which will be raffled off to raise money for St Michael’s Hospice.

Donations can be left at Access Self Storage Basingstoke until December 14.

Jackie Ridge from St Michael's Hospice said: “We are thrilled to be nominated again this year for Access Self Storages Christmas appeal. At St. Michael’s we enable patients with life limiting illnesses to attain the highest quality of life by providing specialist care and we support their families and carers too.

"All our services across North Hampshire are provided free of charge. This year we depend on the general public to help us raise £3.1 million. Without the amazing support of local businesses such as yourselves, we would be unable to continue the wonderful work and support the hospice provides, we really are very grateful, thank you.”

Access Self Storage Basingstoke manager Mike Blaszkowicz said: “Over the seven year history of our appeal, more than,4,500 gifts have been collected for charities all over the UK and we would love to smash this record again in 2018 by collecting as many gifts as possible for St Michael’s Hospice.

"We feel a huge sense of loyalty to this charity which works tirelessly to support our community at the toughest stage in their lives.”

All donations will be delivered to St Michael's Hospice after December 14.