Children who have been impacted by domestic abuse will have a brighter Christmas this year thanks to the generosity of a group of councillors. 

Breckland councillors belonging to the Conservative Party have once again supported the Daisy Programme, which assists victims of abuse.

Their donation of 60 Christmas presents was handed over to the charity's interim programme director, Kate Biles, on Friday (December 9). 

They will be given to youngsters who benefit from the Daisy Programme's support. 

Alison Webb, district councillor for the Dereham Neatherd ward, said: "Last year our Breckland Conservative members generously donated Christmas presents for 30 children.

"Sadly, this year, the need has increased and the ask was to provide 60 presents.

"I want to express my grateful thanks to all who contributed and hope all at the Daisy Programme have a wonderful Christmas."

The Daisy Programme offers a helping hand to men, women and children who have been affected by domestic abuse in the Breckland area.

Since 2015, the charity has run various initiatives and support groups in locations across the district.

Explaining the importance of the donation, Ms Biles said: "Breckland Council is the most amazing partner for us and the Conservative group has been so supportive. 

"I am just overwhelmed by how much has been donated - it is brilliant. 

"Some of our families are struggling really badly with fuel bills and everything else. We've got families where there are five children and trying to get Christmas presents is really tough.

"When you take the presents round and give them to people, they are just blown away."

Sam Chapman-Allen, the leader of the Conservative-controlled Breckland Council, added: "The reality is that parents and children will often have little or no personal belongings, including money.

"This is because they may see a fleeting chance to leave their abusive situation and they take it, without having a chance to pack anything.

"That’s why Breckland Conservatives are continuing this year to support the Daisy Programme with gifts for children. We really hope we can spread a little cheer for those who need it most this Christmas."