THE RELIEF fund set up to help Hampshire families hit by the collapse of Christmas hamper firm Farepak has extended its deadline for donations.

Businesses and individuals now have until 6pm on Wednesday to contribute to the Farepak Response Fund.

Dozens of families from Hampshire are thought to have lost their savings when Farepak went bust last month.

Many had made regular payments into the scheme over the year and were expecting to receive shopping vouchers and hampers this Christmas.

The fund has already collected £5m in donations.

The Department for Trade and Industry has launched an investigation into what happened at the company.

The Farepak Response Fund is seeking donations from private companies, charitable trusts and members of the public to enable vouchers to be provided to affected families in time for Christmas.

Hampshire MPs Chris Huhne and Desmond Swayne have each agreed to donate a day's pay - about £165 - following a plea by Trade Minister Ian McCartney.

To make a donation by credit and debit card call 0845 260 1096. Cheques payable to Farepak Response Fund should be sent to Farepak Response Fund, Unit 4, Alpha Court, Monks Cross Drive, Huntington, York YO32 9WN.

Donations can also be made online at www.farepakresponsefund.org.uk. People wishing to make a large donation should call 01904 550 038.