When it comes to donating Christmas gifts for needy families it seems teenagers are being left out to their younger siblings.

While people are happy giving away baby treats, cuddly toys and games for young children, adolescents are often left empty handed.

A toy appeal in Medway has highlighted the dearth of donated teen presents and is calling for people to set their sights a little older when helping.

A major collection is happening around Medway organised by the Salvation Army.They are expecting to help even more families and are asking for presents for children aged up to 15, preferably new and unwrapped.

Community services manager Eric Slater said: "Teenagers are more difficult to buy for so a lot of people buy for the younger ones but we still need presents for teenagers. We do really well for youngsters, up to 10 and 11 but we still need gifts for teenagers.”

"The things we try to get teenagers are deodorant sets, Lynx and Dove sets, things like that. They still like selection boxes so they get one of those as well. In the past people have given us vouchers for them to buy CDs as buying and teenage boys tend to want socks, especially sports socks.

"Last year I worked out that we had 48 teenagers that we had to buy for."

Last year more than 400 children across the Towns only had presents to unwrap on Christmas morning thanks to the Salvation Army.

"We're so grateful for anything people give us. So far the campaign is going brilliantly," said Mr Slater.

Tesco Extra in Gillingham has donated more than £800 worth of toys. Mr Slater said: “I’ve also collected 36 bags from a lady in Rainham who bought gifts for 12 boys, 12 girls and 12 babies.

All presents should be donated by December 13, as the Salvation Army will start delivering gifts the following day. Drop off any toys in any Boots shop in Medway, or call Mr Slater on 07789 225371 to organise a collection.