Children in Wolverhampton who are in need of equipment for school in readiness for the new term in September have been given a helping hand by local councillors.

Essentials such as backpacks, stationery, books, lunch-boxes and water bottles have been delivered to families in Bilston by councillors Linda Leach and Olivia Birch (Lab. Bilston North), who have teamed up with a local charity to help less well-off people in the area.

The councillors have joined forces with the Sikh Toy Appeal, which has been instrumental in rolling out a huge 'back to school' appeal across the city in recent months.

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Cllr Leach said: "Having raised my children in the city, I understand how expensive the new school term can be for families. That's why I have teamed up with the Sikh Toy Appeal to help them out.

"We've recognised that many local families struggle over the summer holidays.

"It can be expensive to keep children entertained with activities while they are off school, as well as them not having access to school meals - and most importantly, free school meals.

"Our project will allow families who need that extra bit of support to have the items they need to start the new school year off with ease, such as backpacks, water bottles and stationary."

Cllr Leach has organised a further 'back to school' event in partnership with the Sikh Toy Appeal, which will take place at St Chad's Church, Connaught Road, Bilston, on Wednesday, August 28, between 1-3pm.

There will be a stall available where families from the Bilston North ward will be able to drop in and pick up essential school supplies.

"Anyone who is in need of all the basic back to school equipment is welcome to come along and collect what they need in readiness for the new term in September," added Cllr Leach.