LITTLE over a week remains for Hampshire people to rescue £52,000 of charity funds that is winging their way back to Government coffers.

The money was earmarked for good causes across the county but without help it will soon be back in Alistair Darling’s back pocket.

Under a Westminster scheme, the Government vowed to match every pound raised by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Community Foundation (HIWCF) to the tune of £295,000.

However, as the credit crunch has taken hold fewer people have been contributing to charities and HIWCF has only managed to get £243,000.

The charity’s chief executive officer Toni Shaw said: “Time is running out to save this money and we really need the support of local companies and people to give what they can.

“This is the best time to give as with match funding and tax relief every pound we get if worth more than twice that. The most important thing to point out is this money does not just sit around in our bank account but goes out there to fund local projects.”

To support this good cause call 01256 776101 or log on to thebiggive.org.uk/hiwcf.