CHARITY organisations across East Lancashire have sent their heartfelt thanks to members of the pubic who donated gifts at Christmas.

The Be A Star - Light Up Someone's Christmas campaign, part of a seasonal scheme run by the Blackburn Partnership, and given a boost by the Lancashire Evening Telegraph, saw readers hand in all sorts of gifts including toys, clothes and books.

The donations, which were passed on to the partnership - a local community support agency - for distribution, were then given to local charities, support groups and homeless organisations.

The gifts were then distributed to those in need across the area.

Now leaders at some of the groups have thanked the Telegraph readers who pitched in to help.

Donations went to the Mother and Baby Home, Rydal Road, Little Harwood, to help young mums who find themselves unable to cope, or even homeless.

Margaret Melia, officer in charge, said: "The donations have made a real difference. The people we help have very few outside Christmas presents.

"Most people have family who buy them presents but for people like these, they don't have family to do this. They are greatly appreciated."

Donations from Telegraph readers joined the gifts handed to the appeal by local groups and firms.

Donations also went to homeless organisation, Maundy Relief, Abbey Street, Accrington.

Dorothy McGregor, manager of the charity, which counts Coronation Street star Julie Hesmondhalgh as patron, said: "We owe so much to the people who gave so generously.

"We often find the work harrowing and we are grateful to those who donated anything, and gave their time to help."

And today Wendy Hobson, project manager for Be A Star, praised the generosity of readers.

She said: "People are so kind, I am always amazed by their generosity.

"I have seen people almost reduced to tears when I turn up with the donations.

"They thank me, but it isn't me, it is the kind heartedness of local people and companies."

The partnership accepts donations all year round. To help call 01254 661166.