A GROUP set up six months ago to help one-parent families did not just have Christmas as a reason for celebration.

The Gingerbread group, based in Radcliffe, has flourished with more than 20 families now involved.

Formed in July, it has gone from strength to strength, with meetings held every Thursday night at Bridge Methodist Community Centre in Milltown Street.

Treasurer Tricia Warburton said: "We hope to expand further by getting more families to join. We have a good mix of fathers and mothers. Our meetings are very informal, where we offer help, support and advice.

"We have a helpline available through the national Gingerbread group, so people needing information can have easy access."

The group staged its inaugural children's Christmas party, with a meal, disco and karaoke at the Victoria pub in Walshaw, Bury.

Anyone interested in joining the group can contact Tricia on 723 2909 or Glen on 01204 453282.