MOTHERS in Preston and South Ribble are backing The Citizen's Tins and Toys Christmas appeal with a plug on the internet.

A website set up by Lisa Culshaw, 31, of Connaught Road, Preston, which offers advice and help to parents features information about the appeal, now in its second year.

Goodies from local residents and businesses have been pouring into The Citizen's offices for families at the women's refuges in Preston and South Ribble.

But there is still time to donate tins of food, packaged goods, new and unwrapped toys, to families who have escaped from violent and abusive relationships.

Lisa set up www.netmums.com/preston as she feared she wouldn't be able to cope when she was carrying her daughter Benita, now three.

Run by volunteers it has more than 250 members and carries local information.

The patron is Anita Roddick, founder of the Body Shop, which kindly donated goodies to the appeal last week.

Lisa, who is expecting her second child with husband Aidan, said: "The Citizen's appeal is very worthwhile and we are delighted to help."

The Football Museum in Preston has kindly donated sporting goods for the appeal and Preston Mayor, Councillor Neil Cartwright has contributed two Preston bears for the youngsters.

The Citizen will take goods at the offices at 3 Winckley Court, Winckley Square, from Monday to Thursday 9am to 5.30pm and on Friday from 9am to 5pm.