TWO Blackpool social service officers have just returned from a goodwill mission to bring some festive cheer to homeless families.

Blackpool Borough Council hostel manager Gary Cook and colleague Helen Kearsley travelled to Wispers School in Surrey to collect food and toys donated by pupils.

The goodies will now be distributed to families forced to find shelter in emergency accommodation in Blackpool at Christmas who will each receive a share of the food wrapped as a gift from the school.

This is the second year staff and pupils from Wispers have donated food to homeless families in Blackpool.

Last year they posted the items but this year wanted to make the gesture more special by handing the gifts over personally.

Gary said: "Last year the school gave food but this year they have gone one step further and donated toys.

"This time of year is always a difficult one for the families, but I am sure this boost will give those forced to find emergency accommodation through us a better Christmas this year, especially for the children who sometimes have to miss out on presents." Blackpool council's executive member for social services Sue Wright said: "We were delighted when the Wispers School headmaster contacted us to say they'd like to do the same again this year.

"Having to live in temporary emergency accommodation is very stressful for families and Christmas can cause additional stress."

If you can help Blackpool's homeless families this Christmas contact the emergency housing team on (01253) 477949.

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