A GENEROUS anonymous donor has given a mother, who is struggling to live on Universal Credit payments, £1,000 to help her get back on her feet.

Savannah Burke spoke to the Lancashire Telegraph last month and said she barely has enough money to buy food for her and her 12-week-old son, Leo, after she had to put her forensic science and criminal investigation degree on hold to care for him.

The 21-year-old, who recently moved to Oswaldtwistle from Blackburn, said she currently gets around £700 in payments.

But this falls shy of her outgoings – which includes rent, bills, a car contract she cannot get out of, food and heating – totalling around £1,000.

An anonymous donor contacted the Lancashire Telegraph and has donated £1,000 to help Ms Burke.

Ms Burke, who is a looking for work to support her finances, said: “I was completely overwhelmed when I found out what this person has done.

“I’m ever so grateful. I want to thank them so much from the bottom of my heart. This money will help pay for bills, food and important bits for Leo over the next few months.”

Within a card which accompanied a cheque for Ms Burke, the anonymous donor said: “Dear Savannah, this may help a little in your struggle.

“I hope very much that you will continue with your degree studies and, in the end, get a job you will find rewarding.”

Speaking to the Lancashire Telegraph, the donor said: “I read about her situation and I felt I really needed to help her.

“She has fell on really hard times and I want to make a positive difference. I hope this contribution helps.”

Ms Burke said she has had other generous donations from people since her story was published.

She was given two bags of boy’s clothes and a week's food shop was paid for by someone in the community.

She said: “I have come to realise there are some fantastic people in this world who are willing to help strangers. I thank the donor, and everyone else, so much for what they have done.”

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A Department for Work and Pensions spokesman previously said Ms Burke was getting the full amount she was entitled to.

Louise Taylor, executive director of adults services and health and wellbeing, said temporary support was supplied to Ms Burke through the council’s crisis support scheme.