A council’s appeal to help families and children has received hundreds of toys to give out this Christmas.

Chorley council teamed up with SVP Chorley Buddies to run the campaign and collect donations which will provide 716 children in Chorley a gift from Santa on Christmas day.

One mum who received gifts for her children two years ago shared how much of a difference the appeal made to her family.

She said: “Donating to this incredible charity meant that even though we left our world behind, my three gorgeous children got an amazing Christmas, one that they won't ever forget and still talk about.

“Thank you all for your generosity and for the volunteers to, from the bottom of all our hearts.”

A spokesperson for Chorley Council said: “A total of 434 families are supported, meaning 716 children in Chorley, will receive a gift from Santa this Christmas all thanks to the toy appeal.

“The amazing toys and gifts that were donated have now been collected from us by local schools/services and will help hundreds of families across our borough.

“We'd like to say a huge thank you to the SVP Chorley Buddies alongside St Laurence's Church who helped us find donations and organise all of these brilliant gifts.

“Another huge thanks goes to you! Everyone who donated a toy or gift for this great cause. It's going to make a huge difference and bring many smiles to faces.”