An appeal has been launched to replace toys destroyed in a flood at a children’s ward at Maidstone Hospital.

The playthings were spoiled this week after a pipe burst at the Riverbank Unit, which has 12 beds for youngsters undergoing surgery and other procedures.

While maintenance staff were there as soon as the leak was discovered on Monday morning, many of the larger toys had to be thrown away.

Among them were doll’s houses and play tables, thought to be worth hundreds of pounds, as well as some medical equipment and furniture.

A spokesman for the Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust said: “All the children who were coming in were still seen and taken to alternative locations in the hospital to be cared for.

“Thanks to all the hard work of our staff, the unit was ready to reopen the next day.”

Now an appeal has now been launched to help the unit buy replacement toys to help keep up the spirits of children awaiting treatment.

Paul Briggs visits the Hermitage Lane unit regularly with two-year-old son Jack, who has Down’s syndrome.

The 37-year-old, from Eccles, said: “We are there roughly every two or three months and you can spend quite a long time waiting so the toys really make a difference.

“They can break up the distress for these children who are going through a difficult time, and that also gives the parents comfort.

“Since I heard about what happened I have called various toy shops for donations but have not had any luck so far.

“I just hope there are people out there who can help.”

The hospital cannot accept any soft toys because of infection prevention controls but donations of new plastic and cleanable toys would be appreciated.

To donate toys, contact the ward directly.

To donate funds only, call 01622 224500 or send cheques to Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust “Riverbank Unit” at Financial Services, Maidstone Hospital, Hermitage Lane, Maidstone ME16 9QQ.