A WILSDEN man who decided to spend £100 on presents for sick children was overwhelmed when friends joined in.

That £100 soon grew and a group of volunteers has just spent two days wrapping £1,000 of gifts to be distributed to those most needy at Christmas.

“It was just one of those ideas that grew,” said Stewart Bowie, a food buyer for DeliFresh.

“My friend Raja Khan asked me what I was doing for Christmas and when I said I was going to go to the pound shops and buy little presents for children in hospices or places like that he immediately said he would match it.

“I got in touch with Damart and they have given us clothing to give to the homeless or others that need them and we have bought lots of presents for the children which we will distribute just before Christmas.

“Hallmark donated the wrapping paper and a group of us spent two days wrapping all the presents.

“I’m speaking to a few people for the best places to go to give the children their presents. I know there are one or two community centres which are involved with groups who help those in need. The clothes and items are going to those who visit the soup kitchens we supply such as St Pio Friary and Westgate Baptist Church.

“I was amazed with how it’s grown just from a simple idea and it shows how kindness can spread across the cultures. It doesn’t matter what religion you are; people just want to help those who are less fortunate. Together we have to try and fight poverty.

“I know what we have done only scratches the surface but there are a lot of little groups in Bradford who are all trying to help and that’s good.”

Mr Khan, who has Direct Supplies, in Great Horton, said he was more than happy to join Mr Bowie’s initiative.

“It was a chance conversation we had and when Stewart told me what he was doing I said I would be glad to match his £100," he said.

“I mentioned it to five of my contacts and they immediately, without question, said they would happily also give £100. The response was really wonderful.

“The place where we bought the gifts who are also a contact of mine gave us the toys at wholesale price. It goes to show how kind and generous people can be.

“Bradford has given me so many opportunities and I feel it is good to give something back to the city.”