To showcase the incredible generosity of compassionate individuals and businesses, the Burnley Express shared a daily act of kindness from December 1st to Christmas Eve.
Keep scrolling to see them all: –
9. Day 9
Family owned Burnley company Booth’s Flooring invited Father Christmas to carry out a very special duty in December. The man in red handed out 200 selection boxes to youngsters. Established three years ago, the company prides itself on giving back to the community and this festive giveaway rounds off the year perfectly. Managing Director Paul Booth said: “We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support our local community has shown us. In recognition of this we believe it is our responsibility to give back and support the people who have been there for us. “This is our way of showing our appreciation and fostering a stronger sense of community. We believe that by coming together and supporting one another we can create a better future for all. “I consider it a true honour to be able to do this and I firmly believe it is this community spirit that makes Burnley such a vibrant and exceptional place to be.” Photo: NA
10. Day 10
This restaurant has been hosting free Christmas lunches for the elderly for more than two decades. The Wellsprings is a Spanish and Mexican restaurant on Pendle Hill. It has been dedicating a table for up to 10 elderly people - who may otherwise spend Christmas alone - since 2000. Attendees can enjoy a free dinner, plus a gift and a drink, and a taxi there and back will be arranged. The restaurant's owner was also inspired to start the kind tradition to help combat festive food waste. Zak Marhraoui said: "I think every restaurant should do it because the amount of food left on Christmas Day is unreal. That's why we started doing it. I think it's brilliant. Imagine if all restaurants did it. We could do it for the homeless. It would be really good." Anyone who would like to nominate someone for a dinner is asked to ring the restaurant on 01200 427722. Photo: NA
11. Day 11
This Burnley community group has raised funds to make Christmas food parcels for around 30 families in need. The Burnley Wood Community Centre is also collecting new toys to give out to deprived children. Donations can be made at the centre. Kev Shackell, who helps to run the centre, said: "It's just part of our group's vision to help people where we can. Burnley Wood has a lot of wonderful people and it's our mission to drive up inclusion and get rid of seclusion." Photo: NA
12. Day 12
A Padiham community group is handing out Christmas treats that are not normally included in food bank parcels. The HUB at Padiham is collecting items like mince pies, crackers for cheese, pulling crackers, Christmas puddings, and selection boxes for children. A spokesperson for the group called such items "those little Christmas treats that lots of us take for granted". "The HUB helped nearly 70 families last Christmas, but we couldn't have done that without the help of the whole community and Padiham Tesco. "We also helped families with little bags of Christmas goodies that aren't normally given out at food banks and can substantially add to a shopping bill." The HUB is also collecting unopened gifts like colouring books, crayons, toiletries, and used toys in good condition. Pictured is founder Vivien Storey. Photo: NA