A GREAT-grandmother has come up trumps for the Citizen's third annual Tins and Toys Christmas appeal in support of Preston and South Ribble's women's refuges.

Phyllis Redmond, 70, of Hawkins Close, Preston, has given dozens of cuddly toys which she won from playing grabbing machines at amusements arcades in Blackpool.

The retired warehouse worker, who has four children, ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, said: "My daughter Linda saw the appeal in the paper last week, she remembered all the toys I had won, and suggested I give them to the Tins and Toys appeal.

"I thought it was great idea, they have been sitting in a bag for ages and now they will go to a good cause."

The appeal, which was launched two weeks ago, aims to help victims of domestic violence who have sought refuge in the centres. In the past three years it has helped dozens of women and children.

Items suitable for our appeal are children's toys, games and books and tinned/non-perishable foods.

All we ask is that toys are new and unwrapped and tins are within their sell-by date. New and unused toiletries for the mothers would also be appreciated.

Donated goods can be dropped off at our Winckley Square offices, in Chapel Street, or give us a ring on 01772 255523 and we will arrange for them to be picked up. Local businesses can help too.