CONGRATULATIONS! Argus readers have come up trumps again by raising more than £35,000 for the needy across Sussex.

Money is still pouring in from the dozens of functions and collections held as part of the biggest fund-raising event in the county and the total could reach more than £40,000.

Hundreds of disadvantaged children have enjoyed Christmas parties and have been given presents they would not otherwise have received thanks to the 42nd Argus Christmas Appeal.

These included youngsters aged between five and ten in East Moulsecoomb, Brighton, who were treated to a visit from Santa Claus at their annual bash.

Organiser Dave Barnard, chairman of the Moulsecoomb East Social Activities and Tenants' Association, said: "It was a wonderful party which the children all really enjoyed, but we wouldn't have been able to have it without the help of the

Argus Appeal - the donation was very much appreciated."

One of the charities to benefit from this year's appeal is Cruse Bereavement Care in Eastbourne. They received £250 towards the running costs of their office in Orchard Road.

Your cash has also helped to bring some Christmas cheer to the homes of hundreds of elderly people and needy families who have had festive food hampers delivered.

Children aged between eight and 16 with language and learning difficulties are able to get the most out of their love of football thanks to the Seagulls Specials Football Club in Brighton, which has been given £300.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.