Burnley Together Christmas Present Appeal receives generous donation from Northern Community Bank

Organised by Burnley Together, and championed by the Burnley Express, the annual appeal provides much-needed gifts for hundreds of children every year.

The public are now being encouraged to think ahead after a kind-hearted donation from Northern Community Bank. Running for more than three decades, the appeal was originally launched by the Salvation Army’s Burnley branch before being taken over by Burnley Together during the pandemic. Thousands of children from disadvantaged and vulnerable families have woken up on Christmas morning to gifts donated by the public, alongside support from businesses and organisations across Burnley.

Burnley Express editor John Deehan said: “The generous people of Burnley never fail to step up for the appeal. "The lead-up to Christmas though is one of the toughest financial periods for many families. That’s why we want to raise awareness of the appeal throughout the year, so it takes some of that pressure off.

“Northern Community Bank does incredible work in the community, and it’s fantastic to see them supporting such an important cause.” Northern Community Bank is a not-for-profit financial co-operative and ethical lender, owned by its account holders rather than shareholders.

The organisation is currently relocating from St James’s Street to Manchester Road, marking a significant step in its continued growth following its rebrand from Pennine Community Credit Union and expansion beyond East Lancashire. At its 2026 AGM, the organisation donated £20,000 to community centres across the area it serves. A further £1,100 was given to Burnley Together, which included £100 raised through donations on the night.

Ella Roberts, senior customer service advisor with Burnley Together, said: “Thank you so much to Northern Community Bank for their support to the Christmas Appeal. This donation will make a big difference in purchasing more gifts to make sure no child goes without this Christmas.”

Northern Community Bank chief executive Kathryn Fogg said: "Northern Community Bank is committed to helping all the communities we serve. "We know how much our account holders rely on us for the expense of Christmas; the donation to the Christmas Present Appeal will help provide extra help and resilience for families that are struggling."

If you would like to make a donation to the appeal you can access the justgiving page by clicking HERE. Please make sure you state clearly your donation is for the Christmas present appeal. Alternatively, you can drop presents and donations off at Down Town in Burnley’s Charter Walk shopping centre (on the balcony in the corner).