A struggling charity has been handed a much needed lifeline.

The Crescent, which supports people living with HIV, was given a £15,000 grant by the John Apthorp Trust and a £3,500 donation by St Albans Abbey.

The funds have provided vital support to keep the charity running.

Spokesman Iain Murtagh said: “Our survival depends on the generosity of the public.

“With no real regular income we can get very near the knuckle. We are relatively unpaid and sometimes have to put our own money in. It is very timely.”

The Crescent has more than 300 people registered and provides essential support to people suffering with HIV and AIDS.

Iain added: “For our members, our services are essential.

“The people we support are the reason we’re here three years on. We need to be here as there is nowhere else to go.”

Last Thursday St Albans boutique Chloe James held a catwalk show in aid of The Crescent, with other fundraising events, including a pub quiz and busking session in central St Albans, set to take place soon.

For more information on the charity and how to donate visit www.thecrescent.org.uk