A CHARITABLE couple have called on businesses and people to donate items to help fill Santa sacks for underprivileged children this Christmas.

Phil Boulding and Karen Boulding, set up Secret Santa Ltd (Santa’s workshop) at their home in Higher Croft Road, Lower Darwen, in July.

The not-for-profit company collects donations and toys for poor children in Blackburn with Darwen.

And this year, the couple plan to provide 200 Santa sacks of presents to eight Blackburn with Darwen children’s centres so poor kids can enjoy the same pleasure as those from better-off backgrounds.

They have called on residents in the borough to help them achieve this goal, with 1,200 items needed and £8,000 in cash donations.

Santa sacks will include six presents including selection boxes, stocking fillers, books and board game or puzzles.

Mr Boulding said: “The company does nothing else all year other than collect donations and toys for poor children in the borough.

“This year we’re planning on collecting 200 Santa sacks of presents to the eight Blackburn with Darwen council’s children’s centres.

“They look after poor children in the area and their families.

“We’re hoping that 200 children will benefit from these sacks from the age of birth to 16 years old.

The couple said people will be able to donate toys in various locations across the borough - at Cash Generator in Blackburn and Darwen, Triangles hairdressers in Blackburn, and also Smith’s and B&M at the Whitebirk Industrial Estate.

They have also planned a fundraiser at Blackburn Rovers FC on November 25, which will include a Christmas dinner for people and company’s works parties at £30 per person.

While ‘Secret Santa supporter’ wrist bands are also being sold for £1 in shops and pubs across the borough to help with the fundraising drive.

Amongst the donations already received are 200-300 teddy bears for Secret Santa from Manchester-based company Bearly Loved.

Mr Boulding added: “We would call for the generous people of Blackburn with Darwen to donate as many items and money as possible to help underprivileged children.”

To donate items and money or for more information on tickets for the fundraiser, ring Phil on 07866 566 166 or email Phil@SecretSanta.ltd.