Make a child smile with festive gifts

Happier christmas: Presents donated to the Give A Little campaign by Salem Methodist Church. Below, Coun Pamela Jackson, Mayor Coun Val Haynes and Consort Alan Haynes at the launch of the Give A Little campaign 2014

But residents are still being urged to dig deep and buy an extra item to help ensure all the resort’s youngsters enjoy some festive cheer.

Among the folk already supporting the campaign, which is spearheaded by Coun Pam Jackson and was launched earlier this month, are the congregation of the Salem Methodist Church in Layton and staff at Marton-based manufacturer Glasdon’s.

Coun Jackson, said: “At Christmas, it can be easy to forget about the children that aren’t as privileged.

Coun Pamela Jackson, Mayor Coun Val Haynes and Consort Alan Haynes at the launch of the Give A Little campaign 2014

“There are some families that won’t get a Christmas dinner, won’t come downstairs to a collection of presents, which is heart-breaking. Together we can do something about that and put a smile back on those children’s faces.

“All we ask is when you’re buying gifts this year, pick up an extra one and make a child’s day. Every present you give, or pound you donate, stays on the Fylde coast and helps to give a Blackpool child a happier Christmas.”

Worshippers at Salem Methodist Church donated presents while staff at Glasdon’s made donations instead of sending Christmas cards.

Helen Edwards, senior secretary at Glasdon’s, said: “We decided this year instead of sending Christmas Cards to our staff, customers and suppliers, we would use the money to make a donation to a local charity that makes a real difference to children’s lives at Christmas.”

Donations including toys, books, toiletries and clothing, can be made up until December 8 at collection points, including Municipal Buildings on Corporation Street, Sainsbury’s on Bickerstaffe Square, The City Learning Centre on Grange Park, the Enterprise Centre on Lytham Road, and the Solaris Centre.