CHRISTMAS came early for a group of pensioners who received special festive hampers at their regular community centre get together.

Members of the over 50s group at the Firthmoor and District Community Association on Burnside Road, Darlington, were delighted to receive the treat-filled hampers from Sainsbury’s store manager James Dale.

The supermarket donated more than 60 hampers to group members and local residents.

They contained a selection of essential items and special treats for the Christmas period and chairman of Firthmoor & District Community Association, Kevin Nicholson, said they would provide a much-needed boost to families.

He said: “As a local community charity we are aware that many people find this time of year very difficult, the aim of these hampers is to help make Christmas a little more enjoyable - local people needing additional support this Christmas can pop into the centre - we’re happy to support where we can.”