RESIDENTS are being urged to support an annual campaign to brighten up Christmas for the underprivileged in East Lancashire.

Blackburn Partnership is looking for new toys, tinned and non-perishable foods, selection boxes and other gifts to give to the poor and elderly.

The project, sponsored by Blackburn firm Europrint, aims to collect gifts for charities and voluntary organisations in Blackburn, Darwen and Hyndburn.

Anyone wishing to donate a gift can bring it to the Lancashire Telegraph office in High Street, Blackburn; Darwen Community Centre in Knott Street; or Sue's Shoe Repairs in Blackburn Road, Accrington.

The Christmas Challenge also aims to get local businesses to make someone's Christmas brighter by providing a party venue for women and children using the local women's refuge, donating Christmas decorations to a charity of its choice or running its own give a quid for a kid' collection.

Companies can also provide selection boxes, host collections of toys and food, or offer a couple of hours help in a local charity shop.

Wendy Hobson, of the Blackburn Partnership, said: "This campaign is for those who would normally receive nothing at this time of year.

"It is a very worthwhile cause that will allow those less fortunate than most to at least receive something this Christmas.

"If everyone just bought one extra present than normal and donated it to us, then we would be able to give something to everyone in the borough."

Wendy can be contacted on 01254 661166.