FAMILIES and staff at a women's refuge want to thank everyone who has responded to one of its biggest festive appeals.

Wear Valley Women's Aid, in Bishop Auckland, was flooded with gifts and food after an appeal in The Northern Echo.

Staff said that the kindness of local businesses and people helped families staying at the refuge to have a good Christmas, despite being away from their former family homes because of domestic violence.

At the heart of the celebrations was a Christmas dinner, with a turkey and other season food donated by F Simpson and Son family butcher, of Cockfield.

Other festive food donated included home-made mince pies and cakes from members of Bishop Auckland Methodist Church.

Refuge worker Louise Brown said: "Simple things like having traditional Christmas food, parties and a few gifts to open help make it a nice time of the year for the women and children here.

"We are so grateful to everyone who made donations. Every year we make this appeal and remind people we are here, and we are always astounded by people's goodwill and generosity."

The Focus DIY store, in St Helen Auckland, provided decorations and a tree, and dozens of individuals donated cash, toys and other gifts to ensure everyone had a present to open on Christmas morning.