LOCAL businesses and volunteers have been supporting children's charity CHICKS in their efforts to give disadvantaged children a traditional Christmas experience this year.

CHICKS has provided special Christmas breaks for children who are unable to enjoy Christmas at home due to issues such as abuse, poverty and neglect.

As well as monetary donations, CHICKS has received numerous gifts, toys and decorations from generous members of the public. Other donations included turkeys, vegetables and produce from local companies, including Ginsters, Kernow Sausage Company, Hay Farm produce and Tulip Ltd which were used to provide the children with a traditional Christmas dinner and other home cooked meals throughout their week's break.

Chief executive of CHICKS Elanor Hoskin said: 'We have been amazed and overwhelmed by the generosity and support we have received over the last month. It has been incredible to see the local community come together to give children a traditional Christmas they otherwise wouldn't have.

'A big thank you also goes to the twelve volunteers who selflessly gave up Christmas with their own families to spend it with the children. They were vital in giving these children an unforgettable Christmas and will no doubt have helped to form many magical memories and experiences for them.'

During their festive break, the children took part in activities including gingerbread making, a trip to the pantomime and carol singing. On Christmas day they enjoyed a traditional Christmas dinner as well as stockings and presents for every child.

Volunteer Richard Fry, 33, explained his reasons for spending this Christmas at CHICKS: 'As a child, I was always very fortunate to have really positive experiences at Christmas. I spent a lot of time with family, received presents, ate delicious food and went to pantomimes.

'There are many children who don't get to experience such joys and for whom Christmas is an unhappy time. I hope to help a small group of children have a carefree and wondrous time and help them form some great memories of Christmas.'

If you would like to find out more about CHICKS visit http://www.chicks.org.uk">www.chicks.org.uk call 01822 811020 or email [email protected]">[email protected]