THE Citizen is asking readers and local businesses to dig deep and donate to this, our fourth annual Tins and Toys appeal for families seeking refuge from domestic violence at Christmas time.

For many people it is a time filled with seasonal cheer in the company of family and friends.

But for others, Christmas can be a stressful and traumatic time, when domestic violence can rear its ugly head.

Which is why it's important that women and children forced to flee their homes at this time, are given a little something to enjoy.

The Citizen's Tins and Toys appeal provides support for Preston and South Ribble women's refuges.

Manager of South Ribble Women's refuge, Liz Stanton, summed up the difference that the appeal make when she said: "Tins and Toys pretty much covers our Christmas.

"If we didn't have the donations from the appeal we wouldn't have a Christmas."

She said the refuge is usually decorated by the children and all the mothers and children sit down to celebrate together like a big family.

Valerie Wise, manager of Preston Women's Refuge, added: "We are delighted the Citizen is doing the appeal again.

"The readers are sincredibly generous each year."

She said the detrimental impact that domestic violence has on children can sometimes be over looked, which is why the appeal is so important.

So come on readers, help us to make this the biggest and best appeal yet.

Items suitable for the refuges include children's toys, games and books and tinned/non-perishable foods.

All we ask is that toys are new and unwrapped, and foods are within their sell-by date.

Toiletries for the mothers and disposable nappies for babies would also be appreciated.

Donated goods can be dropped off at our Winckley Square offices, in Chapel Street, Preston, or for larger items, we can arrange a collection service, call 01772 255523 for details.