A CHESHIRE charity is appealing for people to fill a sock with loose change in a bid to help those with Down syndrome.

With an estimated £50 million in loose change rattling around our homes Down Syndrome Cheshire wants your help for its ‘Pennies Sock Amnesty’.

The fundraising drive comes in the run up to World Down Syndrome Day on Monday, March 21.

The day of global awareness has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012. The date, being the 21st day of the third month, was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome. 

The reason the charity wears colourful socks on is because chromosomes look like socks.

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Emma Grimster, marketing and communications manager for the charity said: "Hunt around the house, get your hand down the side of the sofa, empty out your coat pockets and stuff it in a sock for us. 

"With more and more of us making digital payments there’s plenty of unused change that could go towards our charity work."

A number of Northwich businesses are behind the initiative and acting as ‘Pennies Sock Amnesty’ drop off points for the charity.

You can drop off your socks at the following venues:

  • Arabica Café on Gadbrook Park
  • Arley Hall Shop
  • Radio Northwich at Baron’s Quay
  • Down Syndrome Cheshire HQ  at 125 – 129 Witton Street

The charity, which provides help to those living in Winsford and Knutsford, is accepting donations from people across Cheshire.

Kim Smith, daytime presenter at Radio Northwich added: "What a wonderful way to support a charity by donating coins that we no longer use. 

"And goodness knows how many of us parents have odd socks lying around the house that could also be put to better use.

"I’m delighted to support Down Syndrome Cheshire ahead of its annual awareness day and look forward to meeting many supporters in the next couple of weeks."

To find out more visit the Down Syndrome Cheshire website at https://dscheshire.org.uk/world-down-syndrome-day-2022/