Scheme to combat begging in Newmarket town centre

A new scheme has been launched in Newmarket urging people to give donations to a homeless charity instead of street beggars.

Spearheaded by Newmarket's outgoing mayor Cllr Andy Drummond the scheme has the support of the Love Newmarket Business Improvement District and 11 town centre businesses.

All of the money raised will be given to homeless charity Wintercomfort to be used to support its welfare and award-winning learning and development programme.

The 11 Wintercomfort collection boxes will be supported by a poster and window sticker campaign to raise awareness. Donations can be made in any of the following businesses: Hughes Electrical, Newsbox, The Racing Centre, Hmmburger, Corney & Barrow, Tindalls News, King Edward VII Memorial Hall, Best Western Heath Court Hotel, Peacocks, Deep Blue Fish & Chips and My Fotoshop.

"I am personally pleased to see this alternative giving scheme get off the ground," said Cllr Drummond.

"I have seen first-hand the work that Wintercomfort are engaged in. I was most impressed that they knew about the homeless individuals connected to Newmarket. I am convinced the Newmarket community will get behind the initiative."

Graham Philpot, Newmarket BID manager, said: "Businesses in the town centre have been pleased to adopt this scheme and provide support to Wintercomfort.

"This is a positive step forward in providing rapid aid to those most vulnerable within our community, whilst helping to keep the High Street clean, tidy and welcoming."