THE charity Aid to Poland has announced its plans following the death of founder Colin Appleyard.

The Teesside charity, which delivered medical aid, equipment, clothing, toys, furniture and soft furnishings to orphanages throughout Poland, ceased operating after Mr Appleyard's death in Poland on August 13.

His widow Gerry, who received about 700 cards and letters of sympathy, is anxious to carry on the charity's work, but without her husband's phenomenal efforts feels the organisation will have to be scaled down.

She said: "Colin worked very hard collecting aid from people who generously supported the charity, and often did not return until late at night.

"There is no one to take his place and I can not take this on myself.

"Although Aid to Poland will continue, it must be in a much-reduced capacity.

"Collection of large items such as furniture will have to cease as we no longer have storage facilities or a means of collection.

"Future activities must concentrate on fundraising events such as car boot sales, social events and coffee mornings, so we still require good quality bric-a-brac, bedding and curtains, tombola and raffle prizes."

Mrs Appleyard said that, without community support, Aid to Poland could not have functioned.

"Colin was very popular, very kind and very nice to everyone he knew. I miss him very much," she said.

The next fundraising event is a ceilidh at Middlesbrough Motor Club, Coulby Newham, on Tuesday, October 2, at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £3 at the door.