A foundation is raising funds for those facing fuel and food poverty this winter.

Hertfordshire Community Foundation (HCF) is running its winter appeal and says it is expecting this winter to be "exceptionally tough" for some people in the county.

The annual campaign aims to help people who are unable to afford food, fuel and who feel isolated.

Foundation director, Helen Gray said: "Each year Hertfordshire Community Foundation runs a winter appeal to help local people who are faced with choosing between heating and eating.

"We have seen an increase in the demand for support from this appeal year on year, however this year we know that the pandemic has had a serious impact on a lot of people's finances leaving many more people struggling to make ends meet.

"It has also left countless more people feeling lonely and experiencing isolation and mental health problems."

Donations to the appeal will be used to provide vital grants to cover fuel and food costs, grants towards activities to reduce loneliness and isolation.

It will also be put towards grants to provide support to help those in need to access specialist services and community groups.

She added: "The consequences of the pandemic cannot be underestimate as people experience food and fuel poverty, having to go without hot meals or living in dangerously cold conditions."

Donations can be made online at www.hertscf.org.uk or by bank transfer to account number 28592379 with the sort code 60-10-39.