A fundraising appeal launched to reopen the historic St Paul's Homes has raised nearly half of its £300,000 fundraising target thanks to the generous people of Salisbury.

The appeal was launched in February by Salisbury Trust for the Homeless and BCHA, and aims to raise £300,000 towards the £900,000 project costs to enable St Paul's Homes to be restored to their former glory and provide accommodation for 12 of Salisbury's most vulnerable people.

The unique building is becoming increasingly derelict, at a time when the need for accommodation for the vulnerable people of Salisbury is growing. Although the exterior of the building is still very impressive, much restoration work is needed to weather proof the structure and bring it up to modern standards. The interior of the flats were last refurbished in the 1960s and therefore need a complete overhaul to make the flats ready for residents.

Phyllis Babb, Chair of the St Paul's fundraising committee said: "To date, over £140,000 has been raised. This is a huge amount and we would like to thank everyone who has been involved and helped us to raise such a fantastic amount of money.

"However, we still need more help if we are to successfully reach our target of £300,000. We are looking for individuals and local organisations, clubs, churches, schools and any other groups to carry out an event to raise money on behalf of the project. This is a way many local people can become personally involved in helping St Paul's Homes to come back to life and once more serve the community as a home for disadvantaged people."

If you would like more information about St Paul's Homes or are interested in fundraising for the appeal, then please visit www.stpaulshomes.org.uk or call 01722 504017.