AN appeal has been launched to ensure hundreds of needy children across the borough receive a present to open on Christmas Day.

Dudley Council's Family and Adolescent Support Team (FAST) have joined forces with Sainsbury's stores at Merry Hill and Amblecote for the annual toy appeal – now in its third year.

Last year generous customers and staff donated more than 100 toys and gifts for families struggling to cope with the festivities.

Yvonne Artiss, PR ambassador at Sainsbury’s at Merry Hill, said: “We are always overwhelmed by the generosity of our customers. We like to be able to make sure all children and teenagers from families in difficulties around our local area have gifts at Christmas.”

Items do not need to be wrapped, but should be new and suitable for children aged 0 to 16.

The FAST team will distribute the gifts to the families at their Christmas party in December.

Shoppers can donate gifts at the stores up until Tuesday October 27.