STAFF at a North-East opticians are helping to bring festive cheer to families being cared for by a women’s refuge this Christmas.

Toys and other presents are being collected by staff at Specsavers, in Darlington, for women and children living at the town’s women’s refuge.

Throughout the last six months, the refuge has provided a safe place to more than 40 women and 62 children, and more than 400 calls were made to their helpline over the last year.

Family Help, the charity that runs the refuge, relies on donations from members of the public and staff are urging people to donate presents this Christmas.

Collection organiser Kerry Bainbridge said: “They are a local charity that doesn’t get enough recognition for what they do.

“We held a collection earlier in the year for bedding and other things and they are going to be our charity of the year next year.”

Store manager Craig Blackett added: “We are trying to become more involved with the local community.”

Gifts can be dropped off at the store until mid-December.

For more information on the women's refuge visit darlingtonrefuge.org.uk

The Family Help helpline is 01325-364486.