Stockport shoppers and businesses have performed a Christmas miracle this year, having provided £85,000 of gifts as part of the Merseyway's Giving Tree initiative.

The scheme aims to provide gifts for less fortunate children around the borough. It revolves around a simple yet powerful concept: tags containing a child's age, gender, and a wish from their Christmas list are placed on a tree in the Merseyway centre.

These tags can be taken down by members of the public, who go and buy the item. They bring the gift, unwrapped, to a collection point near the tree. The presents are then distributed to the people they were intended for.

Taking place from 14 November – 17 December, the Giving Tree has achieved its most successful year to date. Thousands of locals have taken part, collectively donating more than 10,000 gifts including toys, books, games, pyjamas, slippers and more, ready to be distributed to Stockport schools and charities.

Behind the scenes at the Giving Tree - the scale of gifts bought is clear here! (Image - Echo PR)

This year's campaign also saw more businesses participate, with Seven Movement Gym hosting fundraising initiatives to support the campaign, raising £5,225 worth of gifts.

British Gas showed their support by hosting their own Giving Tree in their head office, and Stockport County also donated more than 100 gifts.

Hurst Accountants decided to buy gifts for the initiative instead of a team Secret Santa this year, and Gorvins Solicitors also made generous donations to the initiative, all in support of individuals and families in need across Stockport.

Tags are hung on the tree containing a child's age, gender, and a wish from their Christmas list (Image - Echo PR)

Victoria Nichol, Merseyway Centre Manager said: "It's truly overwhelming to see the level of participation and generosity for this year's Giving Tree. We've never had to replenish the tree as many times before with bespoke tags and, personally, I have been floored by the dedication from local businesses this year.

"I must give a special mention to Seven Movement Gym who hosted dedicated fundraising gym sessions for members and managed to raise over £5,000 for gifts, and Merseyway administrator, Vicky Leicester, for her total dedication to this campaign.

"I'd also like to thank all the volunteers including Stockport Council and the CBRE team. With the help of kind-hearted shoppers and local businesses, we've managed to fulfill more Christmas gift wishes this year than ever before."

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