CHRISTMAS came early for parents and children at a Bolton education centre.

Users of the Early Years Centre in Tonge Moor can study subjects ranging from healthy eating to computing while their children are looked after in a creche.

Members of the Bolton branch of Soroptimists International, which supports community projects and charities in the town, were so impressed with their educational efforts they decided to give them a treat.

They collected almost 50 shoe boxes full of presents, including toys and toiletries, over a nine-month period.

Joan Johnson said: "We wanted to support the women who are building up the community."

The boxes were presented to Julie Stones, head of the centre in Entwistle Street site, who accepted them on behalf of the members.