But the town's Disability and Information Advice Line may be forced to hang up on a 20-year history unless more money is raised.

Selby DIAL, located in Park Street since 2002, faced an uncertain future before Christmas because of a £5,000 shortfall.

The charity has since received donations totalling £3,600 from clients and well-wishers – including £1,000 from the Selby Times-backed Selby Hands Of Hope charity – which will keep the service running till the end of next month.

DIAL, however, needs to raise another £1,400 to remain in business until the end of March.

Service co-ordinator Karen Williams said: "We're definitely here until the end of February, although we cannot commit to the end of March just yet.

"We'd like to say a big thank you to everyone who has donated money so far."

Staff at DIAL are now working a reduced three-day week from Tuesday to Thursday, 10am to 3pm.

The service offers free, impartial advice and support on any aspect of disabled living to people with a disability, their carers, families and professionals.

Selby and District DIAL, formed in 1989, can help with benefit checks, form-filling, representation at tribunal, home visits, wheelchairs and equipment.

Last year, the service helped more than 2,000 people claim approximately £500,000 in benefits to which they were entitled.

Ray Peniston, of Elston Place in Selby, has had difficulty walking since retiring from a lifetime of work, and recently contacted DIAL for help.

His wife Joy said: "You're faced with these massive forms, and if you get one word wrong, it's kicked back to you.

"If you don't know the system it's terrible.

"My husband is a proud man and he said he didn't want to be labelled as 'disabled', but the people at DIAL told him he had worked all his life and he was entitled to the money.

"They backed us all the way and they don't ask for payment, just a contribution if you can afford it."

Donations to DIAL can be made in person at 12 Park Street or by calling 01757 210495.