A community of older people are putting the fun into fundraising by organising tabletop sales and raffles to pay for a series of social events.

The residents of the Fairholme Estate, in Bedfont, who are all beneficiaries of the long-standing Elizabeth Jane Jones charity, are looking to subsidise a series of day trips and activities to keep themselves entertained this winter.

Christopher Round, the charity's chief executive, said: "We're trying to rebuild community spirit on the estate through subsidised coffee mornings, bingo and trips to the seaside."

The Fairholme Estate was built by the Elizabeth Jane Jones charity in 1935, using money left by the wealthy widow to 'house the poor'. The 72 reasonably-priced homes now provide housing for older people who can't afford to buy their own properties.

"We consider this group to be the new poor," explained Mr Round. "They've worked all their lives and have a little savings but are priced out of the housing market. We try to provide a tranquil community where people can live independentlybut within a good social network.

"The buildings are fantastic - like a real time warp - but we recently had to spend £3million on refurbishments so there's not much left spare in the kitty."

The fundraiser on Saturday, organised by Kathy Deacon, raised £740, which will be spent on social events for Fairholme residents.

There is currently a waiting list for Fairholme properties, which are available to people aged over 50, who do not have more than £50,000 in savings.

Application forms are available from the on-site office, which is open on Wednesday mornings.