Children in Torbay Council's family centres enjoyed a happy Christmas thanks to the generosity of kind-hearted local people who donated gifts to the festive toy appeal.

Toys, books and games by the sleigh-load were taken into the Council's Connections offices in Torquay, Paignton and Brixham during December by residents keen to bring some joy to families unable to afford gifts for their children.

Cllr Roger Stringer, Executive Member with responsibility for Connections, said: 'Response to our annual appeal seems to get better every year, and this time it was absolutely brilliant.

'On behalf of the Council, I would like to say a huge thank-you to everyone who brought presents into Connections.

'Some people even went to the trouble of buying brand new presents from local shops, and they were bringing them in right up to the eleventh hour.

'For example, one lady went into a shop the day before Christmas Eve, bought a pair of roller boots and took them into Connections, asking staff to make sure they went to someone who would really like them.

'I can assure her and other donors that their gifts have all helped to bring a smile to the faces of many young people.

'We use our Connections offices for several displays and initiatives throughout the year, and our annual toy appeal is an excellent example of how they can provide a community focal point in Torbay's three towns.'

Sue Cousins, from the Halswell House Family Centre, said: 'We received many large boxes of new toys from several organisations such as the Lions Club who gave games, Meccano sets, dolls, make- up, Playdoh and xylophones totalling about £1,000 in value, which was brilliant.

'We have also had new toys from the Salvation Army in Paignton and Brixham, Ipplepen Church and the Methodist Church in Paignton.

'As it has been so successful we have been able to distribute to other organisations that have identified children in need across Torbay, including Homestart, Surestart in Paignton, Women's Aid and Social Services plus both family centres in Hillside and Halswell.

'It has been a lot of work for the staff at the family centres distributing the toys, but it has all been worthwhile helping to make Christmas special for so many children. '

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