Fulwood school girl sacrifices presents to support the homeless

Poppy Billington, of Fulwood, is sacrificing her presents this year and instead asking for donations to support people without homes in Preston.The 10-year-old, with the help of her mum Tiele, and staff and pupils at Queen’s Drive Primary School, has been collecting items to give to people in need over Christmas.

Tiele, 33, said: “Poppy said she didn’t want any presents and instead wants her money to go to support homeless people. She has been collecting toiletries, hats, scarves and warm clothing to be dropped off at The Foxton Centre. “Teachers and parents at her school have helped her collect some things, but she has been doing it mostly on her own.“On Christmas Day myself and Poppy will go into the city centre and hand out bacon butties and hot drinks to homeless people. On Christmas Eve we will be helping out at Pauline’s Angels, in Chorley, handing out Christmas dinner to elderly and lonely people.

“We have been inundated with donations, which is great,“I am really proud of Poppy. She loves doing things like this. She is very kindhearted.”

Poppy, who has a younger brother, Archie, added: “I just realised I have got so much already and I don’t want anything, but other people do. I am looking forward to Christmas Day to help others.”