A COMMUNITY group says it has been 'blown away' by the generosity after they launched a Christmas toy appeal for underprivileged children - but they need much more.

Phillip and Karen Boulding, who live in Highercroft, launched a their "Secret Santa" scheme three months ago to donate gifts and presents to underprivileged children in Blackburn with Darwen and the Ribble Valley.

The couple have already received several gifts, including 700 teddy bears, donated by Manchester-based company, ‘Bearly Loved’ and almost £4,000 in cash to help their cause.

The couple said that this is an ‘exciting time' for their three-and-half-month-old appeal.

Phillip, who was formerly a member of the Royal Navy, said: “We’ve been blown away by the level of enthusiasm we’ve received since the launch of Secret Santa.

“It is heart-warming to know so many people are willing to donate gifts, time and money for the less well off in our community.

“We had an original goal of providing “Santa Sacks” of presents to 200 disadvantaged children via the eight children’s centres across Blackburn and Darwen to open on Christmas morning.

“We have been supported by BearlyLoved.Org in Manchester with 700 teddies, which will come over to us sometime this month.

“All of this means we actually need almost 6,000 items to go in the Santa sacks, so no small feat.”

The Clitheroe Round Table has pledged a cash donation in support of the Secret Santa Appeal 2017.

Phillip added: “We are relying on the generosity of individuals and businesses and asking them to donate new toys and clothes, toiletries, sweets and chocolates.

“Cash donations are also very welcome and will be used to ensure all the children enjoy Christmas.”

The group are also looking for items that can be used as tombola, raffle or auctions prizes at their fundraising event which will take place at Blackburn Rovers Football Club, Ewood Park, on November 25.

Collection points have been set up at Ribble FM, Castle Barbers and NooShoos, all in Clitheroe town centre.

Saturday, December 16 will be the last day for items to be collected or dropped off and the gifts will then be taken to children’s centres across Blackburn with Darwen and Ribble Valley where staff will distribute them to needy families in the area.

If you want to donate call Phil on 07866566166 or email phil@secretsanta.ltd.