A FINAL push is being made to collect presents for young carers before their Christmas party.

Leigh Lions have been travelling the area with their homemade sleigh and Father Christmas to collect donations for young people who make sacrifices to look after a relative.

Jenny Curry, from the Lions, said: “The children often can’t play out, play football or sport at the weekend as they are looking after their families.

“Some have siblings with severe illnesses – for example, cerebral palsy, or they may have a parent, or both, in a wheelchair.

“These children come home from school, put the washer on, make the tea and take care of their family. They push the wheelchairs even though they are heavy and the carers can be as young as five right up to 24.

Some are completely surrounded by illness.

“We went all over Leigh to ask for small gifts to go into a stocking for each of the children, and we want to thank all of the Leigh people, especially the market traders, and everyone who got involved and gave to us.”

The Lions have been stationed at supermarkets around Leigh throughout December and are making a last plea for donations for their Christmas party.

“All of the money or gifts will go towards the party and any left over will go to other children’s charities,” said Jenny.

For more details call 07711 880420 or 07940 344780.