DARWEN people are being urged to hold on to their unwanted Christmas gifts and old furniture to make 2005 a little brighter for those in need.

Coun Roy Davies has asked people to think of others as they make their New Year resolutions, by donating furniture to a good cause instead of throwing it out.

People are asked to pass their unwanted items on to Darwen Churches Action, in Ellenshaw Street, a charity organisation which helps to recycle unwanted furniture by passing it on to deprived families in the area.

Needy families are interviewed and asked about ther circumstances and the furniture is given only to people who have a legitimate need approved by a doctor, priest or organisations such as Night Safe or local councils.

Volunteers give up their time to repair the furniture and once it is brought back up to a good standard they then deliver it to young families and the poor locally.

Coun Davies said: "This kind of service which provides much-needed furniture for deprived families is important all year round but even more important at this time of year. It is not difficult for people to help out. If they give the charity a ring and let them know that they have items they may be able to use it also stops them having to take them to the tip."

The only request made by Bob Kearney, who runs the charity, is that people do not leave furniture outside if the store is closed.

He said: "If furniture is left outside it gets wet if the weather is bad and if children find it, it often disappears or is vandalised. I know many people are well intentioned when they leave stuff behind but it doesn't help us."

People can drop off furniture between 9am and 4pm, Thursday and Friday, or can ring Bob on 01254 706420 for further details. Volunteers are also required to help deliver the furniture to the Darwen area and would have to give up a few hours a week between 9am and 4.30am on either Thursdays or Fridays.