AN 11-year-old schoolgirl has come up with an idea to help the homeless.

Beaminster School pupil Dot Forrester was so upset seeing homeless people in Bridport she decided to do what she could to help.

She's designed a Christmas card to raise money and after researching on the internet where money is well spent she's decided to donate what she raises to the Pilsdon community in west Dorset.

Dot said it was after seeing a policeman move a homeless man off a bench on market day that spurred her on.

She said: "I have put together a Christmas Card design to raise funds to help the homeless in our area.

"It upsets me to see homeless people on our streets. I was at the market one day when a police officer – who doubtless thought he was just doing his job – told a homeless person quite harshly to get off a bench, because apparently it was sending the wrong message to shoppers.

"It really brought home to me the plight of someone who has to sleep on a bench at night.

"There is no reason why anyone in this country should be homeless. It is cold and wet, and I don’t want to be one of those people who walks by without helping. I know how fortunate I am.

"I can barely imagine the difficulties some people face.

"This Christmas I want to make their lives a little happier.

"After researching on the internet, I learned of the Pilsdon Community near Bridport. Since 1958, Pilsdon has been offering a refuge to people in crisis.

"For some, this means a meal, clean clothes and overnight accommodation; for others in crisis, long-term assistance. Pilsdon treats everyone with respect and dignity. The money I raise will give them presents for Christmas, and help pay for their turkey and trimmings."

Her cards have been sponsored and printed by Footprints and are sale there and Molly’s Den in Bridport or online at thegravitydrive.com/dottodotdesigns/.

Dot and her family consulted human rights lawyer Clive Staffpord-Smith about her plans and he was so impressed he told the News about it.

He said: "I like to celebrate the best things about our community, and for this reason I was very pleased when Dot Forrester came by my house a few days ago, with her parents, to discuss a plan she has to do some good this Christmas.

"It seemed only fitting to let the Bridport News readers know how they can help too."