A SCHOOLGIRL has launched an appeal for shoppers to donate Christmas pyjamas for young carers.

The appeal was launched by young carer Freya Sharpen,12, who has spent much of her childhood supporting her mum Liz in caring for her brother Jacob, aged 13, who has severe ADHD and complex mental health problems.

The appeal in aid of Trafford Young Carers Project which supports hundreds of young carers which has its base at Stretford Mall, is also being backed by teenage Coronation Street star Matilda Freeman, who plays young carer Summer Spellman in the hit soap.

Shoppers are being asked to buy a pair of new pyjamas to donate to the appeal, to give young carers can have a cozy treat in time for Christmas Eve.

Freya, who attends Flixton Girls School has been supported by the carers project to reward the hundreds of unsung heroes, who are also caring for a sick or disabled relative.

Shoppers can drop pyjamas off at Trafford Carers Centre next to Greggs’ inside Stretford Mall, anytime from now until Christmas Eve.

They will then be donated to youngsters aged six to 18, helping them get into the festive spirit at a time when their struggles at home could overshadow the big day.

Freya said: "The Christmas pyjamas appeal is really good and I really hope people support it. I've made a lots of friends at Young Carers and I know they'd like it too.

"It can be stressful at home with Jacob but I've got used it and I try to help him out.

"I've got close friends at Young Carers who I can relate to. We do a lot of projects and activities. I really enjoy going."

Matilda said: "Like most kids I love putting on my pyjamas and relaxing at home, especially during the Christmas holidays.

"Please help young carers to relax this Christmas by donating a pair of pyjamas to the Stretford Mall Christmas pyjamas appeal on behalf of Trafford Young Carers."

Trafford Carers Centre also has an annual Christmas fundraising appeal for the Trafford Young Carers Project, to allow people to make a donation online.

If you wish to donate go to www.justgiving.com/campaign/TraffordYoungCarersChristmasAppeal or text the message CARE44 £5 to the number 70070.