FOR more than one hundred years the charity has helped thousands of blind and partially sighted people across Hampshire.

But now Southampton Society for the Blind is on the verge of collapse unless it can recruit more volunteers and attract more donations.

The 110-year-old charity’s plight has been made worse because of the recession that has seen the value of its investments halve.

Now the society is appealing for volunteers and donations to help its 650 blind and partially sighted members.

Kathryn Arnold, the charity’s chief executive officer said: “We will have to launch a Save our Charity campaign next month unless things change.

“We desperately need more volunteers and more donations to keep the charity running. We rely 100 per cent on fundraising and for grants.

“About 18 months ago we were advised to invest £25,000 in shares bringing our total in shares to £60,000. Since then we have lost £30,000 due to the recession.

“It costs us £112,000 to deliver our services and we just don’t have enough money. We are coming ever closer to closing.”

In particular charity bosses would like to hear from volunteer drivers who can help transport people to and from the centre, as well as take members on trips out.

During the past couple of months the charity has been forced to spend £600 a month on taxis so members can attend social events and meetings at the Bassett Avenue centre.

But now the charity can no longer afford the bill meaning that some of its members have to stay at home.

Volunteers are also needed to help run the charity’s equipment resource room where people can trial or buy visual aids. Volunteers are also needed to help with the centre’s social clubs and administrative duties.

Drivers are paid 40p a mile and are insured through the charity.

Anyone interested in volunteering or making a donation can call Kathryn Arnold on 023 8076 9882.