A charity that gives Christmas presents to thousands of children has been inundated with offers to help a single mother after she was targeted by her abusive former partner.

The woman came home to find her children’s presents had been destroyed. Other items including their Christmas tree and clothing were also ruined - having been sprayed with bleach.

Glasgow’s Spirit of Christmas highlighted the woman’s ordeal after being contacted by her children’s after school club in central Scotland.

Angela McCracken, a volunteer with the group, said: “The response to our Facebook post was overwhelming. Normally we don’t deal directly with families but so many of our members were appalled at what happened they were determined to ensure this family’s Christmas was saved.

“Obviously the family cannot be identified because of their circumstances but we will make sure that they will not miss out because of what happened.

“Given how close it is to Christmas, we arranged a drop off point so that our members could donate. They have been particularly moved by this terrible incident and received so many gifts.”

The appeal was launched six years ago by mum-of-two Julie Griffin, 52, with the aim of ensuring that no child goes without a present on Christmas day.

It began with Julie, from Newton Mearns, and a few friends providing gifts to children in need but has become a massive year-round operation with a 28,000-member Facebook page.

People and businesses donate presents to Julie’s group which are then distributed to around 85 partner charities and other organisations such as food banks.

Last year they helped 11,000 children and this year they have helped 13,460. The total value of donated goods since launching is £1.2m.

It has spread from Glasgow to North and South Lanarkshire,  Dunbartonshire, Renfrewshire, Inverclyde, North, South and East Ayrshire, Argyll and Bute and East Renfrewshire

Their Facebook page states: “We want to make sure every child is included at Christmas and has a wonderful magical experience. You and your family can become a Secret Santa to a local child in need this festive season. No-one can imagine waking up as a child on Christmas Day to no presents.”