A YOUNG boy from West Cumbria is doing his bit to support those who are in need. 

Albie Bonnar, 6, of Whitehaven has been selling handcrafted goods to raise money for Calderwood House. 

The centre, which is based in Egremont, is an emergency homeless hostel that has ten rooms of accommodation on the site of the old police station. 

Calderwood House has helped hundreds of people going through turmoil to rebuild their lives and find purpose. They also prioritise support for ex-servicemen and women. 

When on a trip to Blackpool with his grandma, Colette Morgan, Albie saw a homeless man on the street and decided that he wanted to do something to help. 

He gave the man his last £2, and the experience made Albie think about the homeless people in his own community. 

His Grandma had worked in Calderwood House for many years, and she has supported many homeless people from the street and into their own homes. 

Albie decided that he wanted to help the homeless in West Cumbria and for the last few weeks he has spent his weekends at Grandma’s creating jewellery and other items to sell on our fundraising stall at the Egremont Light Switch On. Sadly, due to Storm Bert, the event was cancelled and Albie feared he would not be able to sell his items as he wished.

However, Albie's grandma took photos of the items Albie made and in just one day he was able to raise £100. 

Albie said: "I was in Blackpool and gave my last £2 from the arcade to a homeless man. 

"It made me think that I wanted to help other people, so I've been making my jewelry and so far have raised £556. 

"I wanted to do something to help and asked my grandma to help, and the money raised will be donated to Calderwood House. 

"It makes me feel happy and I love doing it."

Madie Bonnar, Albie's mum, added: "Albie has always been a kind-hearted little boy and we're so proud that he wants to help people in need. 

"We're amazed at what he's achieved so far, and I'd like to say a big thank you to everyone who has supported him and made such a difference."

On Friday, December 6, he will be selling more of the jewelry at Whitehaven Christmas Markets in St Nicholas Gardens.