A COUPLE who begged the public to save their Christmas by spending cash to buy their seven kids presents have split up, Sun Online has learned.

Ryan Rodgers and Jenny Grimes sparked controversy after receiving £3,500 last month via a GoFundMe plea.

The Liverpool couple claimed they struggled to survive on £480 a month benefits after their Universal Credit payment was slashed.

It later emerged that Ryan, 26, was a pot-smoking layabout who made cash selling items online while also claiming a fortune in benefits.

Several members of the pair's own family were so angry they urged the public not to give them any money.

Now a relative has told Sun Online the pair split just after Christmas.

It is believed Jenny, 25, instigated the split because she was unhappy with the fundraising plot – which Ryan had come up with.

Jenny has since made a donation to charity.

Yesterday her sister Joanne Grimes said: "Jenny and Ryan aren't together now and he is living on his own.

"I'm relieved. Although I know it will be hard for Jenny I think she is far better off on her own."

The couple claimed they had been forced to rely on food banks, charities and help from friends and relatives to feed their kids, who are all under seven-years-old.

Joanne slammed the parents for selling their "children's faces to get pity" and said anyone who had donated should demand a refund.

'THIS IS FRAUD'

In the days after Ryan and Jenny launched their appeal even her own mother urged people to steer clear.

Shelly Grattan said: "I'm ashamed of my daughter.

"This is fraud and I can't believe they have stooped so low as to use the kids in this way.

"I am totally disgusted. The money won't go towards Christmas and the children, it will be used to buy drink and drugs."

Shelly added that the fundraising appeal was a "scam" and said the couple already had money from discretion housing payments, a bond scheme and advanced rent.

"They spent it on clothes for the kids, a big tattoo for Jen, drink and drugs," said the frustrated mum.

"They've also used the money to take them to see Frozen 2."

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