MEMBERS of the Maidstone and District Neighbourhood Watch Association are asking for donations to help with their annual toy appeal.

They are looking for new or nearly new toys, which can be given to needy families in Maidstone to help make it a brighter Christmas.

Last year the appeal was a huge success, collecting hundreds of toys for children aged from 0 –16, which were distributed to low-income families across the area.

Mandy Humphrey, the appeal co-ordinator, said: "We had such a great response from the donations last year and it would be lovely if we could build on that success.

"It is such a delight to see the joy that these gifts bring to the children who receive them and helps take some of the pressure off families over the festive season.

"We ask that the donated toys are left unwrapped, but we are very happy to accept gifts of wrapping paper.

"The toys are being collected in the foyer of the town hall and will be presented to the Kent County Council Family Support Unit who will distribute them to families in the area in time for Christmas."