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GIFTS ranging from a refrigerator to a teddy bear arrived at a Durham Women’s Refuge this week.

The bumper delivery of presents was all thanks to the staff at the Belmont Grange Care Home in Durham.

For weeks staff members have been collecting and wrapping gifts for both children and the women residents at the refuge to ensure they all enjoyed a present-packed Christmas.

Manager of the Home, Julie Brown explained: “We wanted to do something locally and we decided to get as many gifts as possible for the women and children at the refuge.’’ The plan snowballed and the staff along with members of their families came up with gifts galore.

“Apart from dozens of children’s toys and clothing we were also donated a refrigerator,’’ said Julie.

And this week all the gifts were packed into a vehicle and delivered to the refuge.

“We were all very proud of how much we were able to collect and delighted to be able to help a local good cause,’’ she added.

The success of the venture has now decided the staff to continue collecting items for the refuge.

“We intend to go on supporting the refuge throughout the year, not just as Christmas,’’ said Julie.

Anyone wishing to add their gift to the Home’s efforts can do so by telephoning Julie on 0191 3849853.