STUDENTS from Ringwood School have collected a mountain of food to give to homeless people at shelters across the south.

The move is part of the Danny Cracknell Christmas Appeal, which the school takes part in annually.

Mr Cracknell, who was mayor of Ringwood until his death three years ago, organised volunteer teams from Ringwood to give food and essentials to the homeless.

Following his death the school has been carrying on his appeal, which has now been running for more than 20 years.

Some 1,600 tins, packets of pasta and toiletries were donated by students and staff and taken to homeless shelters in Bournemouth, Portsmouth and London that do not receive funding elsewhere.

Student Jock McMaster has driven the appeal and encouraged the people of Ringwood to help others during the festive period.

Jock said: “Every Christmas we aim to collect a mountain of tinned foods, and other essential items that the needy may need over the Christmas period. Year in year out Ringwood School helps with our goal, and we are truly thankful to all of those that have donated items to this year’s collection.”