THE Gypsy and Traveller community in West Yorkshire has pulled together for different charities this Christmas.

The community has been offering their support to charities that help people who are homeless and struggling with the cost of living crisis.

Leeds Gypsy and Traveller Exchange (Leeds GATE), a member-led community charity for 20 years, followed the calls of one of its members Kathleen ‘Suzie’ Doherty.

Giving to charity is an annual tradition for Suzie, who contributes food, toys and essentials to local churches and foodbanks across the area.

Kathleen said: "In the Bible, Jesus helped people with the little he had, so it’s important to try and help others even if you can only give something small.

“Many Gypsy and Traveller people do similar every year."

Father Neil Bryne, of Christ the King and Holy Family Catholic Churches in the Armley and Wortley area, said: "When they put the message out so many people gave we actually had to tell them to stop as I had nowhere to store it all.

“I cannot thank the community enough. We are blessed to have them.”

Young people, who attend youth groups at Leeds GATE each week, also created gift boxes for younger people.