Redditch residents have come together to support people who are alone at Christmas. 

Worcestershire County Council's Audit Learning Service carried out courses across the county called Community Projects to help people gain crucial skills and support others in their local area. 

One project, based at Willow Trees Community Centre in Church Hill, saw residents create gifts for people who would be alone on Christmas Day. 

Adult Learning Worcestershire Partnership manager, Nikki Stearman, said: "The main aims of our Community Projects are to bring learning opportunities into the heart of Worcestershire neighbourhoods, and to empower people to come together, learn new skills and work as a positive team. 

"The team decide on what they would like to do to aid local people and I am so proud of what everyone at Church Hill has done. They are giving people who might overwise have no gifts to open the gift of compassion. 

"I cannot wait to see what other project teams do in the new year."

St Andrew's Church also host a Christmas Day dinner each year for people who live on their own and those taking part in the project wanted to ensure that everyone at the dinner received a present. 

Volunteers from the church will hand out the handmade gifts at their festive lunch on Monday, December 25. 

Cabinet member with responsibility for communities at Worcestershire County Council, Marcus Hart, said: "This project in Redditch, driven by a spirit of community and generosity will help combat feelings of loneliness during the holiday season. 

"Community involvement is so important as it brings people together to achieve great things. It is what our country does so well and I am proud of their achievements. 

To take part in future Community Projects call 01905 728 537 or search 'community' to see the full list of scheduled projects via the courses website at www.worcestershire.gov.uk