A Harrogate-based charity, which provides support to women who have escaped abusive relationships, has launched an appeal.

The New Beginnings Peer Support Group would like to raise £2,400 so that it can purchase hampers for 60 women who are said to be struggling to provide for themselves and their children this festive season.

The hampers are being offered by Roots & Fruits on King Edward’s Drive at a cost of £40 each, and New Beginnings now needs the funds to pay for them.

New Beginnings founder and CEO Lindsay Oliver said: "Mum-guilt is a very real concern for us at this time of year.

"They want to make Christmas a special time.

"Some children have endured truly terrible experiences as a result of the problems at home, and mums are likely to push themselves into even greater debt by spending money they simply don’t have."

Those wishing to support the hamper appeal can contact Lindsay on 07852 786278 or visit www.newbeginningspeersupport.com/