INVESTEC is helping to ensure much-needed clothes get to South Africa. The Guernsey business is covering the cost of shipping a containerful to townships in Cape Town.

It is the second time Investec has assisted Anita Ludik-Hoskins in her efforts to provide clothing, books and toys to South African charity the Annalene Retief Health Foundation.

The publicity surrounding the first shipment in 2003 prompted the public to donate more clothes.

Mrs Ludik-Hoskins has now amassed enough to fill two pallets. She will be sending them off on the 6,000-mile journey at the end of the month.

‘I usually spend half the year in South Africa and I have close ties with the foundation, which is run by my brother and sister-in-law, and I’ve seen first hand the need for this kind of help.’

The clothing will be split between Annalene Retief and Radio CCFm, a Cape Town non-profit Christian station.

Investec Trust’s Lisa Vizia said the company was happy to have the opportunity to help again.

‘Anita is making use of our island’s surplus clothing.

‘While we take clothes for granted, there are people in need and this clothing is a way of gaining dignity. It is a great way to recycle and provide assistance.’

Mrs Ludik-Hoskins will travel to Cape Town in October to oversee and help with the distribution of the items.

‘Investec has been wonderful, covering the cost of the shipping to Cape Town, the South African importation taxes and the cost of delivering to Annalene Retief and Radio CCFm.

‘I would like to thank all the Guernsey people who have continued to donate generously and made sure that I have plenty to send.’