A charity has launched an annual Christmas stamp appeal to raise money for blind and partially sighted people.

The South West Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB) is urging people in Dorset to save their used stamps to raise vitals funds.

The charity wants the stamps to be donated to support more than 186,000 people in the south west living with sight loss.

Terri Bush, RNIB volunteer stamp appeal co-ordinator, said: “With 1.7 billion cards sent each year, the scope to raise vital funds from used stamps is massive.

“Any amount of used stamps, large or small, is appreciated and will really go a long way to helping RNIB deliver its vital services for blind and partially sighted people this Christmas and throughout the year.

“Getting involved is easy, so there really is no excuse not to get stuck in by sending us your unwanted stamps.”

Last year’s appeal raised more than £24,000 to help the RNIB provide a range of service – while more than £100,000 has been raised since the first appeal over 20 years ago.

For details about sending your stamps or to get involved collecting them in your area, email Terri at rnibstamps@rnib.org.uk

Stamps can be sent to RNIB Stamp Recycling, PO Box 185, Benfleet, Essex, SS7 9BH.