Shropshire Gift Appeal: Santa arrives early
Santa came early to good causes in Shropshire as the process of distributing gifts donated through this year's Christmas Gift Appeal began.
The children's ward at Telford's Princess Royal Hospital, The Harry Johnson Trust and Home-Start Telford & Wrekin were among the first groups to receive presents donated by big-hearted Shropshire Star readers.
The Christmas Gift Appeal, which has been jointly organised by the Shropshire Star and Storage King in Shrewsbury, has collected about 900 gifts for youngsters and the elderly since it was launched at the start of last month.
The aim of the appeal was to bring a smile to the faces of people who would otherwise find Christmas a difficult time.
Lisa Gilks, ward sister of the children's unit at the Princess Royal, said she was thrilled with the donations.
"I would like to say a big thank-you to everybody who has donated toys to the appeal," she said.
"Christmas can be a difficult time for children and their families who are in hospital over the festive period.
"It is lovely to know that there are people who are thinking of others who are in a less fortunate position at this time of year."
The Harry Johnson Trust, founded by Sally and Stephen Johnson in memory of their son who died from a rare form of cancer at the age of seven, also received a selection of toys and games.
The charity provides support for children who are being treated for cancer, and Sally turned up with Harry's brother Eric to collect their gifts.
Julia Allinson from Home-Start Telford & Wrekin also received a haul of gifts for youngsters it supports.
The charity works with the parents of children up to the age of five who have been experiencing difficulties due to their circumstances.
She said the gifts would mean a great deal to the children who received them.
The appeal is also supporting a number of other charities and groups –Hope House Children's Hospice, Telford & Wrekin children's services, The Movement Centre for children with cerebral palsy, Parents Opening Doors which works with the families of youngsters suffering from disabilities, the Little Rascals Foundation for children with learning disabilities, Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin, North Shrewsbury Friendly Neighbours, and Telford & Wrekin Young Carers.