Broad Street Mall recently welcomed national charity Help 4 Homeless Veterans to host a fundraiser for their cause.

The charity, aided by The Mall's mascot Topsy Ted, manned a stall adorned with balloons and gave away tasty festive treats on December 22.

Members of the fundraising team also rowed for nine hours to raise money for the cause.

Thanks to the generosity of Reading’s shoppers and staff from the Mall, the charity managed to raise an impressive total of £1,600 for their cause, which supports former members of HM Forces that are homeless and living on our streets or those facing homelessness.

Nicola Williamson, centre manager of the shopping centre, said: “We’re thrilled to have been able to support such a worthwhile charity at such a poignant time of year.

"Members of the armed forces do so much for our country and many individuals suffer when trying to reintegrate into regular life, so it’s great that we have been able to give something back in their hour of need.”

Anyone wishing to contribute to the total raised can do so by texting 70070 with HFHV88 followed by the amount they wish to donate, or by visiting the website www.help4homelessveterans.org.