The caring nature and generosity of local people has been praised after the success of this year's Alsager Christmas Toy appeal.

This has meant that over 220 children will have presents to open on Christmas Day after people were asked to buy an extra toy or gift for the children in the local area whose families are going through a difficult time. 

 The gifts have been distributed to children mostly in Alsager, but also in the surrounding areas following referrals, from local schools, churches, social workers, and Alsager Foodbank.

The Christmas Toy appeal is a project of Alsager Community Support organised by local toy appeal co-ordinators Teresa and Don Longhurst.  

This year, the toys were prepared by a group of volunteers, for distribution at Alsager Guide Hall, after Girlguiding Alsager kindly made their premises available. 

Mr and Mrs Longhurst said: "We are continually amazed by the generosity of the local residents, schools, businesses, churches who donate toys, gifts, wrapping paper and chocolate treats.

"This has allowed the appeal to give toys and gifts to over 220 children to open on Christmas Day.

"Despite the very challenging times we are all facing, the response to the appeal again this year was overwhelming, and it demonstrates what a caring community Alsager is.

A bumper selection of donations given to this year's toy appeal (Photo: Muriel Dal)

"We would like to thank all those who donated and helped us with the appeal this year." 

Liz Pinkney, trustee and manager of Alsager Community Support said: "Once again this year Don and Teresa have done a fantastic job in organising our Christmas Toy Appeal, which I know from experience is quite a task. 

"Over the last few weeks, our centre volunteers have enjoyed greeting new faces and having some lovely conversations with people as they have called in with bags of toys.

"These gifts will make a huge difference to local families in need, enabling parents to give presents to their children without worrying about whether they can afford it. I'm sure there will be many more smiling faces on Christmas morning as a result of the kind Alsager people. A big thank you to everyone involved!"

Alsager Community Support is located at 5a, Lawton Rd, on the edge of Fairview car park (by Asda). It is open from 9.30 to 12.30 pm on weekdays.