CHILDREN with Down syndrome have each been handed a Christmas gift thanks to a generous delivery of toys made possible by a supermarket.

Christmas came early for Together 21 - a project which supports children with the genetic disorder and their families - after the drop-off from Bishop Auckland’s Tesco Extra.

The supermarket chain donated a range of presents from their stock which were suitable for youngsters up to the age of 16 including musical instruments, Ker-Plunk, mind games, animal toys and creative art sets.

Diane Goodwin, project leader for Together 21, based in Newton Aycliffe’s Pioneering Care Centre, said: “The generosity and support of Tesco, Bishop Auckland, has been overwhelming to all of us here at Together 21 and the Pioneering Care Partnership.

“We feel it is very important for our community based project, especially as it serves families from throughout the North-East, to work closely with local businesses to both raise awareness of the need for such a project and to raise vital funds.

“These funds are crucial to ensure the continuation of our essential work which allows our children to take advantage of every opportunity that early intervention can provide.”

Together 21 is a parent-led project which is supported by health and wellbeing charity, the Pioneering Care Partnership.

It offers learning, fun and friendship to children with Down syndrome and their families from across the region.

The team provides access to a comprehensive programme of tailored learning and life skills for children from birth to 18 years old, helping them to gain the essential skills that will equip them to meet the future with confidence.

As part of its offer, it helps children improve communication and Makaton signing, speech and language, numeracy, fine and gross motor skills and behaviour and social skills.

Earlier this month the group brought joy to shoppers at Newton Aycliffe’s Tesco Extra with a performance of Christmas carols and other songs including Jingles Bells and hits from The Greatest Showman.

Carol Gaskarth, chief executive for the Pioneering Care Partnership, said the charity was proud to support the project which currently supports 46 families and costs £90,000 a year to run.

For more information about the project call 01325-321234 or email enquiries@pcp.uk.net Alternatively, visit pcp.uk.net/projects/Together%2021.html or find them on Facebook @Together21PCP