Former employees of a department store could be eligible for a grant to help them through hard times.

From 1991 to 1996, Owen Owen had a branch in the Westgate Centre, Oxford. Former employees, who worked full or part-time, and their dependants could now qualify for cash.

The chain store's founder, Mr Owen Owen, set up a trust fund to help employees in case they ever suffered hardship.

Now the trustees, including David Owen, the grandson of the founder, are searching for those employees in the Oxford area.

John Norman, former chairman of the stores' group, said: "The principle which my grandfather put in place more than 100 years ago still applies. It is our opportunity to give something in return to the loyal people who worked for us and now find themselves in need."

Grants are available to those who are eligible and on incomes of less than £9,000 (£11,000 for a couple) for help with everything from telephone line rental, to major household refurbishment and funeral expenses.

To find out if you qualify for help, call 0845 1130067