Almost 80 children in the St James' ward of Oldham were gifted a Christmas present this year thanks to a community initiative to support families in need.

Friends of Stoneleigh Park were busy collecting presents for children who may not have had a lot during the festive period in December.

Many families across the borough have struggled to grapple with the cost-of-living crisis, and there were fears many children wouldn't receive a visit from Santa and a Christmas present at all.

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The group sprung into action the week before Christmas, delivering presents to 72 children in Derker, Watersheddings, Sholver, Littlemore and Clarksfield - as far as St Mary's estate - as well as 25 hampers to vulnerable people in the area.

The initiative was funded by the National Lottery's community fund and was supported by Labour councillors, Cllr Josh Charters and Cllr Angela Cosgrove.

The drive in St James' also came as one mother ensured 150 disadvantaged children in Royton received a present, which she funded by setting up a local scarecrow trail for Halloween.

Councillor Charters, who is also the deputy cabinet member for children and young people, said: "Bringing a little bit of Christmas cheer after families have been struggling with the cost of living crisis has been the least we could do.

"The generosity of volunteers who delivered these presents has been astounding, and to see the delight on the faces of families as we delivered gifts has been the best present I could get this year."

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