ELDERLY people in Knutsford are to receive Christmas hampers thanks to the festive spirit of a caring 10-year-old.

Jasmine Howard, who lives in Cross Town and is a member of 2nd Knutsford Cubs, wanted to give something back to the community after missing the harvest festival at her school, Manor Park Primary.

She decided she wanted to give out food hampers to those who need them the most, which led her mum Kara to appeal for donations on Facebook.

Kara and Jasmine were overwhelmed by the response to the appeal, with people from across Cheshire calling at their home to drop off items.

Knutsford Guardian:

Jasmine with items donated by the public

Kara said: “Jasmine wanted to put together the hampers for people in the area who are not able to get to the shops this Christmas.

“The response on Facebook was absolutely brilliant, with people sharing it and getting in touch saying what a great idea it was.

“She has now got enough food for 15 hampers, and as we live in an area with a lot of elderly people we decided they would benefit from them the most.

“People have been so generous by donating food for Jasmine to give out, and she is really excited to get started.

“This time of year is all about making people happy, and she cannot wait to do that by delivering the hampers. She just wanted to put a smile on people's faces.

"When she was little she wrote to Santa at Christmas asking for a bird feeder and bird seed so she could feed the birds."

Hampers will be delivered to people nominated on Facebook who were happy to receive the hampers, which include items such as fluffy socks, thermal gloves and handkerchiefs.

Manor Park Primary headteacher Simon Cotterill said: “We are all so proud of Jasmine for her efforts.

"Knowing Jasmine as I do I am not surprised that she has done this because she is such a kind, generous and giving girl.

"This act of kindness is a reminder that the real spirit of Christmas can be found in the act of giving and putting others before yourself. She is a great example to us all - well done Jasmine.”