Children's boot fund charity back in operation

Janet McConkey from the charity says she jumped up and down when she learned that Clarks would help supply shoes

A charity which provides shoes to children is back in operation following a setback when a city retailer closed down.

The Coventry Children's Boot Fund has been going since 1983, but its service was put under threat with the closure of the children's shoe section at one of its suppliers in December last year.

The charity, which provides about 500 pairs of shoes per year, now has an agreement with shoe firm Clarks which will accept vouchers issued by the organisation.

The charity was "really excited" to be back in operation again, said volunteer Janet McConkey who has been given an MBE for her work.

She said families with children at schools in Coventry could ask for an application form, and once verified the charity would then issue vouchers to eligible applicants.

Since the previous supplier shut they had not been able to supply vouchers as there was nowhere to redeem them, she said.

But since Clark's had come on board vouchers will be able to be issued before Christmas.