DOZENS of children had gifts and toys to unwrap this morning thanks to a generous donation from a Black Country recycling company.

Mason Metals gave £500 to Dudley CVS's annual Operation Santa appeal, which provides toys and gifts to local children and families, likely to wake up on Christmas morning with very little.

Last year the appeal reached more than 6,000 of the 15,000 children in the borough living below the poverty line.

Andrew Jones, managing director of the Brierley Hill based non-ferrous scrap metal recycling company, said: “It's great to support local charity's and our local community. This appeal is particularly touching.” said Mr Jones.

Staff also clubbed together to provide a car load of toys, selection boxes and wrapping paper.

Commercial manager, Neil Woodall added: “Everyone really got behind the idea and enjoyed donating."

Eileen Fielding, development officer at Dudley CVS, said: “This year's Operation Santa appeal has been brilliant. We've received over 4,000 items and the support from local businesses such as Mason's has been fantastic."