A record number of coats were collected in the 10th year of an estate agents' annual event to support London's most vulnerable.

Enthusiastic employees from Chestertons branches across Richmond borough took part in the Coat Drive.

They were delighted at being able to contribute as their individual stores acted as collection points, each taking in dozens of winter coats from generous residents.

Local branches in Friars Stile Road, Sandycombe Road in Kew, Upper Richmond Road in East Sheen and Barnes High Street all took part.

The coats have been cleaned and given to the Calling London charity, who will pass them onto 30 charities including Crisis, Hestia and St Mungo's to distribute to those in need, including homeless people, victims of domestic abuse, those living in poverty, the elderly, refugees and children.

Demand for their services has boomed in 2020 with increasing numbers of people falling into poverty.

It left more vulnerable people in the capital without the ability to afford everyday essentials, such as food for their families and a warm coat for the winter.

Usually, Chestertons opens its London offices as donation points for unwanted winter coats throughout November.

But, with more coats needed than in previous years, the estate agents decided to launch the collection in October, to allow people as much time as possible to donate.

And they responded, with a remarkable 6,000 coats collected in total.

Chestertons said: "A huge thank you to everyone who donated towards Chestertons' coat drive, in support of Calling London!

"Your generosity has helped to collect over 6,000 coats for London's most vulnerable people, an incredible achievement – especially given the challenges posed by Covid-19."

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