MEMBERS of Darwen Lions are hoping to bring Christmas joy to sick and poor children in the town by playing Father Christmas.

And they want to hear from anyone who knows of a deserving child under 10 to whom they could donate a present.

They have a large collection of toys which have been donated by people and organisations in the town in the run-up to Christmas and now hope to distribute the gifts in the next few days. This is one of the many fundraising and community activites the group have been involved in during the past 12 months.

They also recently held a Christmas Party for around 130 of the town's elderly residents at Darwen Masonic Hall.

Entertainment included the Salvation Army Band ensemble, the Newrad Singers and soloists Clare Marsden and Hannah Knowles.

The Darwen Lions youth charity team helped serve the meals and Father Christmas gave out gifts.

Flowers were presented by Lions president Anthony Tattersall to two sisters, Flory and Emily Gunning, who had racked up 199 years between them.

Anyone who knows of a deserving child or wants to find out more about the Darwen Lions should contact Ian Ashton on 01254 703666.