TEENAGERS filled more than 40 shoe boxes with gifts to give to children from asylum seeker and refugee families.

They were handed over at a party where about 50 youngsters, some having fled war-torn countries, enjoyed games, entertainment and festive fun.

Families from countries including Sudan, Kazakhstan, Nigeria and Iran were welcomed to Victoria Hall, Knowsley Street, where they also enjoyed food prepared by Bolton Steps charity.

Patricia Holmes, chairman of BRASS (Befriending Refugees and Asylum Seekers) since 2012, said: "This year, we have been funded by Children in Need and we are having a children's party.

"Santa is coming, there are presents and games, we have got a belly dancer and African dancers.

"It's Christmas and the children don't have much.

"Last year, we saw 1,159 asylum seekers and refugees from 49 different countries.

"They are here because they are persecuted, because they have experienced things, because they have experienced torture.

"People are very happy to be in Bolton.

"They like to be in Bolton. I think it's quite a friendly place.

"It's got a tradition of welcoming immigrants."

Young ambassadors Tonya Pepper, aged 15, and Meera Solanki, aged 17, from Bolton Interfaith Council, helped prepare 44 shoe box gifts for young children who are supported by BRASS.

Meera said: "We are aware of the excellent work of BRASS who support the refugees who have very little.

"We agreed to create these shoe box gifts for the disadvantaged children at this festive time of the year.

"Members of the public have kindly donated pens, pencils, small toys, dresses and other items."

Bolton is among the top 10 towns and cities in the country with the most asylum seekers, according to the latest Home Office figures.

The data shows that in the second quarter of 2014 there were 755 asylum seekers living in the borough — 78 more than in the same period last year.

The number has risen each year in Bolton, with 556 people seeking asylum in the borough in 2011.

BRASS, based in Great Lever, gives advice on issues including immigration, housing and English classes, as well as organising social and activity groups such as women's sewing and men's well-being.