A FUNDRAISING campaign to replace hate with hope and bring smiles to people’s faces by using inspirational messages on posters is halfway from reaching its target.

Since the Adver covered the story last week of graphic designers Jon Richards, 29, his brother Paul, 33, and friend Dan Dinsey, 29, setting up their CAREmongers project following the negativity and xenophobic crimes after the Brexit vote, they have raised £1,385.

The appeal has been backed by more than 100 people and they are hoping more get behind the idea so they can hit their £2,500 target and put posters, billboards and adverts in Swindon and beyond to spread some positivity.

One of their ideas includes poster which reads ‘I don’t care where you are from, I think you’re great.’

Jon, who lives in Haydon Wick with wife Zoe and their daughter, said: “Thank you to everyone who has donated so far.”

The three men’s mission has also been met by enthusiasm and encouragement from people in the town and on social media.

One person said: “Such a waste of time all the hatred and negativity floating around. It's a great life when you lose the hate. Fair play to people who bother to make a difference.”

Another added: “Love will always win over hate and I want to be part of that.”

And Nikki West said: “This is a great idea. Positive and kind acts will help to change things.”

The crowdfunding website has just over two weeks left. To donate go to: crowdfunding.justgiving.com/caremongers or for more information visit their website at caremongers.com