KIND-HEARTED residents are stepping up to make sure no family in Broomhill misses out this Christmas.

Community volunteers Zoey Gatens and sister Louise, who are part of a local wellbeing group, are once again running a festive toy drive.

They have been overwhelmed by the response from local people and businesses who are rallying to the cause.

On top of the toy appeal they are also running a Broomhill Christmas Celebration for everyone in Broomhill.

Broomhill residents dig deep for toy appeal Broomhill residents dig deep for toy appeal (Image: George Munro) Broomhilll resident mum-of-one Zoey said: "We know that this year is going to be tough for people. But we have such a fantastic community here in Broomhill and we all want to help one another.

"We have been overwhelmed by the amount of gifts and toys donated."

The group is organising the Broomhill Christmas Celebration next month in the Grosvenor Bowing Club with lots of activities.

Zoey added: "We want to do something really positive to help. It is great that we have the Broomhill Bar and the local shops. They have been incredible." 

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"Christmas is an expensive time and we want to to help families as much as we can.

"The Christmas celebration will be great as well. We want everyone to have a great time and the children to go home with a present."

The Broomhill Wellbeing Group plans to help throughout the year.

Broomhill is part of the Greenock Central East ward, one of the most deprived areas in the country.

The group has been supported by the Broomhill Bar, as well as local businessman and volunteers Gerry Bradley, Bal and Avi Bopari, and local convenience store owner Mohammad Mashwani.

Louise Gatens added: "These businesses are incredible, they are so supportive and really care. We couldn't do it without them."

The Broomhill Christmas Celebration takes place on Thursday, December 12 from 6 to 9pm in the Grosvenor Bowling Club, Dempster Street.

This is a free event with no cost at all, but places are limited and it has to be booked.

All children will be given an extra ticket for a toy.

Anyone looking to donate to the toy appeal or wishes a place at the Broomhill Christmas Celebration can email broomhilllwrgroup@gmail.com or call 07368858813.