A FACEBOOK group aimed at Warrington residents has become a leading example of how communities can come together and help those in need.

Changing lives on your doorstep (CLOUD), an idea created by Mark Smith from Liverpool, is a series of 53 Facebook groups across the country where disadvantaged families can request essential household items and generous people can donate their unwanted goods.

CLOUD Warrington has just over 4,000 members.

Linda Day, head admin of CLOUD Warrington, explained: "It was set up about four years ago because we were hearing about so many people going without essential things.

"I think it first started with a couch which was in perfect condition.

"Just because one person no longer needs it, that doesn't mean someone else can't use it.

"We also help people like ex-military and sufferers of domestic violence, anyone who is starting over again, because that is so expensive."

Any members who have unwanted items are free to post images of their goods in the group and people in need can comment on if they require them.

People struggling financially can also post themselves and request items they require.

Linda said: "Item requests go from small things like plates to bigger ones like white goods.

"Of course, we don't give people flat screen TVs, only the necessary items.

"It keeps stuff out of landfill too.

"We keep lists of people who have received goods.

"We also work with people who wish to stay anonymous and we will post on the group on their behalf; we are just the middle-man.

"Most items are first come, first served and everything on the group is free.

"In the run-up to Christmas, we have a week where we ask just for toys so it takes the pressure off families who are struggling."

Lauren Daley, from Latchford is an admin for CLOUD Warrington and recently took up the voluntary role.

She said: "You donate and we then over-see the donation.

"I joined the group as an admin quite recently after donating a few items myself.

"You just want to reach out to as many people as possible and they are free to contact us and we will put a request out for them."

Anyone wishing to join the group to request or donate items can find it on Facebook where you can also message admins with any queries.