MANY of us are fortunate enough to enjoy a Christmas with plenty of roast dinners and luxury gifts, but let’s not forget there are those who struggle to pay for their next meal.

A 35-year-old mother, Mel Whitchurch, was left with only 74p to feed her daughter, Cheyenne, for six days after her Universal Credit payment failed to go into her bank account.

After The Argus published her story, strangers generously donated tinned goods, pasta and cereal to the family.

It’s pleasing to see that people are willing to give a helping hand to a struggling family who they don’t even know.

Some feel cynical about the holiday season because it has become too commercialised, yet Christmas also brings out the best in people.

Their plight has prompted people from around the country to offer help.

One woman offered to give snacks to Cheyenne for school, and Mel also received a message from someone in Newcastle saying they were happy to help.

While Mel has received gifts from strangers, there are still many families in the UK like her who try to make the best Christmas for their children with very limited resources.

Low-earning parents struggle to afford even the most basic lifestyle.

Many people will have endured a difficult year with Christmas the one day they can hopefully look forward to.

The Festive season isn’t just about receiving, it’s also the gift of giving.

Those of us with the means to do so should help where possible. It will be much appreciated.