A LITTLE Christmas cheer has been spread around elderly residents in Darlington by staff at a Government department.

Workers from the Independent Safeguarding Authority, based at Morton Palms, is delivering hampers to elderly residents in the town.

The ISA, which makes decisions about who should be prevented from working with children and/or vulnerable adults, has teamed up with the WRVS to help with its annual Christmas hamper appeal.

Every team at the ISA has put together at least one hamper - 26 hampers are being delivered today and tomorrow. Gifts inside include plants, audiobooks, gloves, scarves, chocolates, wine and biscuits.

Chief executive Adrian McAllister said: "The whole organisation has really got behind this hamper appeal, and I think it's great that we're helping to spread a little festive cheer in our local community.

"Everyone's really enjoyed putting the hampers together, and there's even been a little bit of friendly rivalry between the teams - with everyone competing to create the best box of gifts."