The Argus Appeal has raised a staggering £70,000.

The cash, which will help needy people across Sussex, is more than the appeal has ever raised before. Last year's total was £34,000 and the previous highest sum was in 1998 when it collected £50,000.

Organisers say there is more to come this year and fund-raising is still going strong.

money has poured into the appeal's coffers since its kicked-off at a glittering launch party at Brighton's Grand Hotel in September.

The event raised £29,000 and provided the springboard for what has been a record-breaking year.

Since the launch, dozens of kind-hearted people have organised and supported events in aid of the appeal, which is now in its 43rd year.

Among the many events held during the past three months have been bingo nights, concerts, auctions and book sales.

Regular meetings are held between the appeal's seven-strong team of trustees, who sift through scores of applications.

The Argus absorbs all administration costs, meaning every penny raised is directed straight to those who need it most.

Appeal coordinator Elsa Gillio said: "It's been a brilliant year.

"The unique thing about the appeal is that when people hand over £5, they know that £5 will go out straight to those in need.

"The money raised would not have been possible without the appeal's many supporters. They have worked tirelessly to raise the money which is helping so many worthy people.

"This has been a fantastic year for the appeal and the hundreds of thank you letters I have received from those people who have benefited are testament to that."

Among those who have benefited is cerebral palsy sufferer Bruce Backler, five.

When the appeal's trustees heard about his plight, they agreed to foot the £1,300 bill for a special electric bed.

It gently eases Bruce forward at the touch of a button, saving step-mother Carol the task of lifting him out.

Ms Backler, 49, of Slinfold Close, Brighton, said: "Congratulations to The Argus Appeal, it is truly a fantastic achievement.

"The bed has made an enormous difference to both myself and Bruce.

"It is something that I certainly could not have afforded on my own.

Also to have benefited is Tony Lovell, who had part of his right arm amputated after his bicycle was in collision with a car as he rode from work in Shoreham, in 1992.

Since then Tony, of Surrey Street, Shoreham, is fighting to help others by setting himself up as a disability adviser.

The appeal heard of Tony's bravery in the face of his injuries and helped pay for a personal computer.

Anyone wishing to help the appeal can contact Elsa on 01273 544544.