Liverpool Echo launches pyjama appeal for Christmas

Behind Local News
Nov 3 · 2 min read

By Laura Davis, Special Projects Editor, Liverpool Echo

New pyjamas are as much a part of a Liverpool Christmas as turkey, crackers and falling asleep in front of the Queen’s Speech.

Snuggling into bed on Christmas Eve in a cosy new pair is a festive tradition that is so loved in childhood that we continue it as adults.

Yet there are thousands of children in Merseyside who would go without if it wasn’t for a community-led appeal to collect pyjamas for kids who are homeless or otherwise in need.

When we learned of the incredible work Liverpool mother and daughter Karen and Ashleigh Downing do every year, the ECHO wanted to do all it could to help reach even more children in need.

We know how generous our readers are, and how keen they are to help those less fortunate than themselves. And we haven’t been disappointed.

The ECHO’s support for the Pyjama Party Liverpool appeal was launched in print and online on Friday — and we have already been overwhelmed by the response

Many readers have commented on Facebook and on the launch article, praising Karen and Ashleigh’s work and pledging to buy pyjamas.

A Merseyside-based pyjama company has been in touch to offer a large donation of pairs for all ages of children.

At a time when the national news is focused on a nation divided, it is truly heartwarming to see the people of Merseyside coming together to improve the lives of children they have never even met in a small, but significant, way

For privacy reasons, Karen and Ashleigh never get to see the children they collect pyjamas for, but they are delighted by the messages of thanks they receive.

Karen said: “We get messages saying ‘The kids are all snuggled up in their pyjamas and are watching a Christmas film’.”

ECHO editor Alastair Machray said: “Christmas pyjamas are a Liverpool tradition. It’s heartbreaking to think of the thousands of children who go without at this special time of year.

“When we learnt about the great work Karen and Ashleigh do for the community we wanted to get involved. We know how generous ECHO readers can be and we hope you will join us in supporting this wonderful campaign.”

If you would like to donate to the appeal, visit www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/pyjamaparty

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