Devon needs your help for festive campaign

Leigh 'Devon' Burns has set up a Facebook page called support 4 Inspirational Kidz she sends cards and toys to children in hospital. This year she has set up operation cuddly toy.

A KIND-HEARTED woman is on a mission to make Christmas extra special for poorly and disadvantaged children this year.

Devon Burns, from Chadderton, has launched a cuddly bear toy appeal and is asking Oldhamers to donate a toy or any kind of gift that can be given to children this year.

These include, but are not limited to, games, colouring books, cuddly toys, personal hygiene products and selection boxes.

The gifts will then be distributed to the children just in time for Christmas.

Devon (40) initially set up this initiative two years ago but did not do one last year due to ill health.

After reading stories of ill children in the news, she contacted their parents for permission and started by sending them cards (or 'smiles').

As well as children in hospital, Devon will also be in touch with groups that help out disadvantaged children and ensure they will not be forgotten in the festive period.

Devon said: "I just wanted to bring a smile to a poor child, to show there are people who care.

"Seeing a child smile is the best thing ever.

"It makes you feel warm inside. My family thinks it's really good and they're proud. They have been very supportive."

Devon is now an official Team Humphrey fundraiser, which allows her to raise money for Royal Manchester Children's Hospital.

After getting the word out on social media, Devon was also able to get some support from St Joseph's RC Primary School in Shaw.

Year 6 pupils from the school will be creating 'smiles' for children, which Devon will distribute at Royal Oldham Hospital and Royal Manchester Children's Hospital.

For details visit www.facebook.com/Support4InspirationalKidsNYoungAdults/ or www.gofundme.com/2qycmb9w.