PEOPLE in Darwen are being encouraged to kick-start 2005 by helping struggling new parents cope with the cost of a new baby.

Organisers of a new campaign say many collections are held in the run-up to Christmas for tinned food and toys for deprived youngsters and elderly people, but young people with new babies are often left without the essentials.

Now the rector at St Peter's Church, Darwen, has come up with the idea of collecting baby items after a similar drive proved successful in his previous parish.

He hopes that when people go out to buy their Christmas presents, they will spare a thought for those less fortunate than themselves, and purchase an extra item.

Anything suitable for a new-born baby would be welcome, including new baby clothes, nappies, food, feeding bottles, talcum powder and baby wipes.

They will be collected at the church during the next three to four weeks and then given to local health visitors for distribution among new parents.

St Peter's rector the Rev Andrew Holliday said: "The gift of a child, especially at this time of year, is really something very special. As Christmas approaches I thought we could help some of our young families in the Darwen area.

"There is often a cry from the local health visitors for help with new things for new babies. We may be able to help by donating nappies, food, baby clothes, feeding bottles - the list is endless - to help those families who for some reason or another are in slight difficulty after the arrival of a new baby.

"There will be a basket at the back of the church into which the donation can be put. The clothes may also be stored so that there is a stock there for when the health visitor needs them for someone later in the year."

Anne Barnish, neighbourhood co-ordinator based at Darwen Health Centre, said: "This is an excellent idea in the true spirit of Christmas. I can guarantee that all donations will go to those local parents and babies who will benefit the most."

The Baby Clothes at Christmas appeal runs until the beginning of 2005. For further details, contact the parish office on 01254 703929.