A CHARITY which has been helping families for more than 35 years is launching an urgent appeal for trustees in Okehampton.

Home-Start Okehampton needs people who have skills in managing people, fundraising, public relations or who may have a background working with children and want to make a difference to their community.

The charity, which set up its Okehampton branch seven months ago with help from the Okehampton United Charity, offers support, friendship and help to families with at least one child under five.

It is overseen by dedicated trustees who set up the overall direction of work and support paid staff in their management of the day to day running of the scheme.

The need for Home-Start's support is continuing to increase, especially in the difficult economic climate but without trustees, the branch will not be able to continue.

Trustees, who will all receive training, are asked to offer between eight and 12 hours a month.

Anyone who can help is asked to call co-ordinator Louise Bol on 01837 52374, email: [email protected]">[email protected] or go along to an open day day the Inspiration Centre on April 16 from 1pm.