William left hits note and has been inundated with generosity (Picture: BPM)

A man who left a note asking people to help him in a desperate note at the end of his garden has been overwhelmed by people’s generosity.

Known only as William, 59, he put the sign up outside his home in Carlton, Nottingham, begging for ‘a couple of tins of beans’.

He revealed that his last meal was a jam sandwich and he had no more money for food or heating.

Within hours of his plea, his local community responded with donations from a nearby food bank and his power and heating were turned back on.


On top of that, a fundraiser for him has now hit £11,500 and neighbour Jenny Connell has said she would drop a hot dinner off at his home a couple of times a week.



One donor, a single mum, left £1 for him. She said: ‘Sorry it’s not a lot. In thousands of debt myself but what’s an extra £1! Merry Christmas x.’

He’s received donations from a wide range of people in his local community (Picture: BPM)

Children have been donating their pocket money and one person who was paying off their son’s funeral gave £1.78 with the message: ‘I can only apologise this is all I have in my bank account, we all fall on hard times including myself at the moment but we all need to help each other.’

Businessman Craig Crawford started the fund. He said: ‘It’s heartbreaking but heartwarming seeing people give their their last penny to help him.

‘It’s humbling and I’m proud to see the community pull together to help when someone is in need. It’s a great example of what social media can do.’

The money will be used to help William, with some set aside for others in desperate need.

William, who lives alone in the house following the death of his mother, had been making ends meet by selling off furniture and games in garage sales until recently.

Adult social care has been contacted in a bid to help him claim benefits. Previously he had too much pride to claim, saying others were in greater need.

He may also be able to claim financial support via Boots benevolent fund as a former employee.

It’s not just the money which has been a concern but loneliness too. But since the story emerged a cousin has been in touch and is planning a visit.

A Facebook page called Send William A Christmas Card & Help Him! has been created asking people to send William a Christmas card, including one from 11-year-old Savannah, saying: ‘I am so sorry you have to live like this but we are going to try and help you soooo much. I am so glad to help you.

‘My sister had bought some stuff to try and make you feel better.’

Cards can be sent to a PO box which is in the process of being set up.