FAMILIES in need across Dudley will have opened their presents this morning which without the help of a borough wide initiative would not have happened.

Toys and gifts have been delivered to disadvantaged families after Dudley Council’s Family and Adolescent Support Team (FAST) joined forces with Sainsbury’s stores in Amblecote and Merry Hill.

Generous customers and staff have donated more than 100 presents towards the toy appeal which were handed out at a family Christmas party for the children and families supported by FAST.

Councillor Ian Cooper, cabinet member for children’s services, said: “It’s great to see the council and Sainsbury’s working together to make this special initiative a reality once again this Christmas.

“But what’s even better, is the generosity of people in our communities who have kindly donated toys to this worthy cause.”

Dudley’s FAST team encourages families through difficult times and is currently supporting 190 families and 353 children up to the age of 16 in the borough.