A leisure centre has launched a Christmas campaign to support struggling families.

Malvern Splash, managed by Freedom Leisure for Malvern Hills District Council, has started its 'Freedom to Give Back' initiative in collaboration with the Starting Well Partnership - South Worcestershire Action for Children.

The campaign aims to bring joy and hope to families in need during the festive period.

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The community can now join in by donating gifts for those who may otherwise go without presents.

Central to the campaign is the centre's Christmas tree, adorned with tags suggesting specific gifts such as toys, books, board games, and toiletries.

Community members are invited to select a tag, purchase the gift, and return it to the centre.

Action for Children will collect and distribute the items to families in the area.

Adele Hodges, Freedom Leisure's Worcestershire Healthy Communities manager, said: "We’re thrilled to partner with Starting Well Partnership and Action for Children to support local families.

"The holiday season is about coming together, and this campaign aligns perfectly with our own mission ‘to improve lives through leisure’ and gives our community the opportunity to make a meaningful impact to those in need."

The organisation will also be matching the public's generosity by giving away free swimming tickets and gym passes to be used at the centre.

Councillor Jennie Watkins, portfolio holder for communities and housing at the council, said: "This is a wonderful initiative which gives residents the opportunity to help and support families in need this Christmas time."

Sarah Walton, community lead at Action for Children, added: "As part of the Starting Well Partnership, Action for Children works to support families locally who are struggling financially.

"This is a fabulous initiative that will enable us to provide presents to these families, meaning their children and young people will have presents to open on Christmas Day."

To learn more about the campaign or to select a gift tag, the public is invited to call Malvern Splash at 01684 893423 or visit the centre in person at Priory Road, Malvern, WR14 3DS.