Following on from a warmer-than-average autumn, winter has already delivered good falls of snow across the Central Tablelands, arctic daytime winds and a few subzero mornings.

And that's fine for most of us. People that can afford it have suitable heating in their homes and plenty of warm clothing when they are out and about.

But, unfortunately, that's not everyone. Many people in our community - and other communities across the Tablelands - rely on local charity stores to supply them with warm garments and blankets.

Calls for donations are regularly made by charities, particularly at this time of year when winter garments are in short supply.

So how about this for a plan?

With the long weekend upon us, could there be a better time to ask the generous people of Bathurst to open their cupboards and have a spring clean a few months early?

Is there a coat you haven't worn for a couple of years, a woolly jumper spending more time in your drawers than wrapped around you or track pants or a hoodie that don't get the regular outing they once did?

Think of the space you will be gaining in your cupboards.

Think of the warm feeling you will achieve by giving and the warm feeling you will give someone less fortunate who would otherwise being facing a lot of cold, chilly feelings.

You can donate at any of the charity stores in town.

They will appreciate your donation, but the city's needy will appreciate it even more.

Because nobody deserves to be cold in Bathurst this winter.