A KIND-HEARTED teenager has given up her own Christmas presents in order to bring a touch of festive joy to other youngsters.

Darlington youngster Hannah Short shocked her family when she told them not to bother buying her gifts this year, instead asking them to donate cash so that she could buy presents for others.

The 13-year-old has since been shopping for a haul of toys and gifts, which she has donated to the Salvation Army’s annual toy appeal.

Hannah said she had been moved to do so after realising many children could go without gifts this Christmas, while she had everything she needed.

The Haughton Academy pupil said: “There was nothing I really wanted for Christmas and I thought it would be nice to give something to children who don’t get a lot.

“I think that getting a present would mean a lot to these children – sometimes kids my age will talk a lot about what amazing things they’ve got for Christmas and hearing that must be heart-breaking for those who don’t get much.

“At Christmas time, I think I’d encourage people to think of others and think twice before asking for something, think about whether you really need it and go from there.”

Hannah’s mother, Michelle Short, added: “I was surprised when she said she didn’t want anything herself, I didn’t know what to think about it at first.

“I then realised there was no point in buying her stuff she didn’t want or need and thought it was great that she could help to make someone else’s Christmas happy.

“I’d love to see more people follow in her footsteps – I know a lot of people struggle for money but if they could put a bit away every month to buy just one gift, it could make a difference.”

Hannah and her family visited the Salvation Army’s Darlington citadel to hand over the gifts recently.

Minister Shirley McKenzie said: “Hannah was such a lovely girl and this gesture seemed like such a natural thing for her.

“It really makes us appreciate the fact that there are folk that understand what we are trying to do, which is really important.

“We’ve had a really generous response to the appeal this year and have a room full of presents and gifts – seeing people come on board with this and Hannah gives us hope for young people - she is helping to make a huge difference and it's amazing that she had this thought and that her family went along with it."