Families in need will be given extra support this Christmas following a training course for volunteers.

Clockwise from left, Melissa Ramming, Helen Frazer, Jacqueline Corton and Terri Pilgrim

They have started work for a charity that helps families who are going through a difficult time.

Homestart, which opened its Bicester office earlier this year, completed its first training course last week. To celebrate it held a Christmas lunch to present the successful volunteers with their certificates.

Jacqueline Corton, Helen Frazer, Melissa Ramming and Terri Pilgrim are ready to put their new skills into practice.

Naomi Hillman, the scheme co-ordinator, said: "It's a wonderful Christmas present for Bicester. It has taken three years to get to this point and we're now able to offer support to families who have asked for a helping hand over Christmas."

Homestart, which is part of a national charity that helps families with at least one child under five, is based in Churchill Road. A second training course will start in January and places are still available. For details, call 01869 320099.