Church hopes to deliver 300 toys

FLASHBACK . . .last year's toy collection

CHRISTMAS is a time for giving and one Royton church is calling on residents to donate a present to ensure no child is left out this festive season.

Bethesda Church, on Dogford Road, has launched its annual Christmas Toy Appeal and is hoping to spread festive cheer to as many local children as possible.

Last year, the church helped over 200 children experience the joy of opening presents on Christmas morning but this year they are hoping to help even more.

Cuddly

The appeal, which began several years ago, asks residents to donate a toy or gift which can be distributed to children in the area from low-income families and who cannot afford presents this Christmas.

Pastor Geoff Goodwin said that they aim to give each child three to four presents, a book, selection box and a cuddly toy.

He said: "The generosity of last year gave joy to over 200 children but this year, as the appeal becomes more well known, our target is around the 300 mark.

"We now urgently need toys for all ages from one to 16 but if you are buying then please aim at the 11 to 16 groups.

"We know from past years that there is sometimes a shortage of gifts for this group."

Gifts can be dropped off at the Church Beehive charity shop (Tuesday to Thursday, 10am until 2pm, or anytime the doors are open) or at 12 Thornham Old Road, Royton.

Gifts can also be collected by calling 07976-768 112.