A KIND-HEARTED schoolgirl has come up with a festive way to help the homeless.

Aliyah Kernan, from Winsford, has drawn a Christmas picture of Santa for a colouring competition.

The eight-year-old is inviting children to take part for £2 and all the money will be used to buy sleeping bags for people struggling to survive on the streets.

Mum-of-three Steph Lowdon 28, said: "Aliyah came up with this wonderful idea all by herself. She really does have a heart of gold which makes me proud that we are bringing our children up the right way. She is always coming up with little ideas."

Aliyah, a pupil at St Joseph's Catholic Primary School, told her mum she wants to help people living on the streets keep warm and comfortable.

Knutsford Guardian:

Aliyah Kernan hopes to buy sleeping bags for the homeless

"It is such a selfless thing for someone so young to do," said Steph. "She is always thinking about other people. On parents' evenings at school teachers tell me that Aliyah is a kind-hearted little girl.

"She is always looking out for other children. If she sees someone sitting on their own in the playground or anyone feeling poorly she will always go and sit with them and play with them.

"She really is a little diamond."

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Aliyah also looks out for her two brothers Mason, five, and one-year-old Jacob. Her dad Mike is very proud of her.

Prizes donated by businesses will be given to the winners of different age groups including under 3, 3-5, 6-8, 9-11, 11 plus and a special category has been created for adults with learning difficulties who wish to enter.

"We have already had a great response through Facebook," added Steph.

Knutsford Guardian:

Aliyah Kernan is inviting children to colour in her Santa picture so she can buy sleeping bags for the homeless

Colouring entry forms are available by emailing StephLowdon@hotmail.co.uk.

Closing date is Sunday, November 24. Winners will be chosen on November 30.