AN appeal is being launched to help dozens of struggling Rossendale families beset by illness or hardship to enjoy a brighter Christmas.

And charity champions are being urged to get their thinking caps on as Home-Start Rossendale launches its Snowflake Appeal from their base in Rawtenstall.

TV star Kirstie Allsopp is supporting the fledgling crusade – so-called because the circumstances of each needy child and family assisted by Homestart is ‘fragile and unique’.

Alison Mather, the Rossendale co-ordinator, said: “When families struggle to cope with illness, disability, bereavement, poor housing, mental ill health, or many of these problems all at once, Home-Start supports them until they can stand on their own two feet again.

“The circumstances of each child and family are unique and fragile so we tailor make our support to their unique needs. That is why we have a unique and fragile snowflake to represent the appeal.”

First established in the borough in 2007, one of the main initiatives undertaken by Home-Start has seen donors able to help a troubled family for £27 a week.

But for the Snowflake Appeal, the organisation is asking supporters to dream up their own fundraising challenges along the winter theme.

This may include fashioning loom band snowflakes, with instructions given on their Youtube channel, to sell to friends.

Or sporty types can seek sponsorship to run the equivalent distance to the North Pole on their local gym’s treadmills, maybe create knitted or crocheted snowflakes to go on offer at a festive sale.

Kirstie Allsopp, an ambassador for the Home-Start group, said: “This is a fantastic organisation and whether you volunteer, fundraise, or make a donation there is no better thing to do for those children who won't have a good start in life.”

Further fundraising details can be obtained from Home-Start’s offices at Suite 33, Hardman Business Centre, New Hall Hey Road.