Kind hearted Burnley people make sure annual Christmas toy appeal has a festive flying start

Support for the appeal, which this year is being organised by Burnley Together, has been remarkable, with gifts and cash donations towards presents flowing in.

The Burnley Together partnership of Burnley Council, The Calico Group, Burnley Leisure, BFC in the Community and many more organisations are working together to ensure a magical Christmas for children whose families rely on the appeal.

The Burnley Together 'elves' have been busy sorting through the presents already received through the Amazon Wishlist and the justgiving page has already seen donations reach £405.

The appeal, which was launched by the Salvation Army 25 years ago, is also asking people to shop local and support Burnley businesses during what has been an unprecedented year for so many. Any business that would like to be added to the present appeal directory is asked to email [email protected].

A facebook group called Burnley Virtual Christmas Market has also been launched to showcase local traders. And the group founder, Lucy Whitehall, has started a raffle with all money going to the toy appeal.

Last year, the Salvation Army ensured that 1,800 children across Burnley and Padiham woke up on Christmas morning to lovely new toys and gifts. This year a lot more families will need the help of generous folk to help to make Christmas Day possible for their children.

The appeal has been supported by the Burnley Express since the start and editor Chris Daggett said this year the appeal was more vital than ever.

Pupils and staff at Cliviger's St John the Divine have thrown their support behind the campaign by collecting presents for the appeal and also for the food bank. The school is also acting as a collection point at the start and end of the school day.

Headteacher Mrs Naomi Healey said: "In these difficult times, it is so important that we all support each other.

"As a headteacher, I know that many families are struggling. By working together as a community we can all make a difference this year."

Anyone who would like more information about the Christmas appeal, including drop off points for gifts, is asked to go to https://burnleytogether.org.uk/