Two local charities have been given a festive boost by shoppers in East Leeds, which should help them to do even more good works in 2006.

Visitors to Crossgates Shopping Centre over Christmas were given the opportunity to help St Georges Crypt and the Hospital Heartbeat Appeal, both charities nominated by the Lord Mayor of Leeds. Funds were collected via donations at the Nativity scene provided by Churches Together, a Wishing well in Santa's grotto and carol services throughout December.

This years Christmas fundraising events raised an amazing £679.80p, which will now be donated to The Lord Mayors Appeal in support of both charities.

"I'd like to thank the residents, shoppers and tenants of Cross Gates for their kind donations and the Centre itself for selecting my appeal as beneficiaries. These donations will really mean a lot. I would also like to thank all of the choirs for their support and time in bringing Christmas cheer and raising funds at the same time", said the Lord Mayor, Cllr William Hyde. "These are just two of the charities that I try to help and both provide such a fantastic service to the local community."

Last year, Martin House Hospice benefited from the fundraising at Crossgates and other local charities have also received thousands of pounds in total over the past years.

Steve Seymour, Centre Manager of Crossgates Shopping Centre, said: "Every year the shoppers of Yorkshire amaze me by putting their hands in their pockets and coming up trumps for worthy causes. During the busy build-up to Christmas, it's great they still find time to think of others and we're delighted with the amount that's been raised, proving once again that Yorkshire folk are still the best in the country and know the true value of Christmas".

St George's Crypt is in its 75th year and helps 150 people each day who seek advice, warmth, food and companionship. The Crypt, through past donations, is now able to provide facilities for a night centre, overnight accommodation for rough sleepers, a clothing store, food parcels for needy people and a drop-in centre for asylum seekers, in conjunction with the Leeds Health Access Team.

Martin Patterson, Chief Fundraising Manager for the Crypt said: "This money is a great start to the New Year and we hope that the people of Yorkshire can continue to support us in 2006 in the same manner as 2005. It will certainly be well spent."

Crossgates Shopping Centre is home to almost 60 stores, including Tesco, Wilkinsons, Woolworths, New Look and Bonmarche, and has more than 300 parking spaces in its award winning car park.