A fish and chip shop which is loved by Oldhamers and even appeared on national TV talking about the impact of the cost-of-living crisis has launched a heartwarming gesture in the run-up to Christmas.

Hills Fish and Chips on Oldham Road in Middleton has been run by the Hill family for more than 20 years and has earnt its stripes in Rochdale and Oldham as one of the best places for a chippy tea.

Hills has hit headlines over the years, particularly in the cost-of-living crisis as the chippy made the tough decision to raise its prices in 2022, citing "shocking" rises in gas and electricity while the price of fish "skyrocketed".

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At the time, the fish and chip shop said it "hated" having to increase prices.

Then in the summer of that year, the owner, John Hill, spoke to ITV's Tonight programme about the impact of the crisis on his prices.

John Hill spoke to ITV's Tonight programme about the cost of living crisis John Hill spoke to ITV's Tonight programme about the cost of living crisis (Image: ITV)

Now, in a bid to give back and support the community, the chippy announced "Christmas is coming to Hills Fish & Chips" as the team plan to give away toys for children over the festive period.

Participants only need to like, comment and share the post of each toy on Facebook to be in with a chance to win.

The chippy said winners can decide what they want to do with the toys, whether they'd prefer to give them to people in need, donate them to Cash for Kids or a similar charity, or keep them.

In true fish and chip style, the chippy said winners each week will be announced every Friday.

Toys that have been won so far include a Batman remote control car, a pink doll and horse set, a Barbie toy and a car track, all of which were gift-wrapped with a bow.

Those who entered the competition also stated what they would do if they won, with some saying they would donate the toys to the children's ward at Royal Oldham Hospital or to the Lighthouse Project's Christmas toy appeal.

It's not the first time the chippy has staged other giveaway events either as the team often host fish and chips giveaways in the year.

Reacting to the initiative, residents said the gesture was "amazing" and a "lovely thing to do".

Chloe Lea wrote: "That's just one more reason why you guys are the best around. Just beautiful" while Georgina Jacques said it was a "beautiful act of kindness."

Emma Bennett wrote: "You're such kind humans."

Got a story? Email me Olivia.bridge@newsquest.co.uk