A TOY appeal has been launched to treat children in need

Asda on The Drumber is appealing for unwanted gifts and new toys for the Salvation Army to distribute to families in crisis.

Community colleague Tina Holt said: "Every year we choose a local community group and for the past couple of years we have had a good repertoire with the Salvation Army.

"We're hoping to collect presents as early as possible to give them time to be sorted out in age groups and distributed in time for Christmas."

Staff are looking for festive donations for babies and boys and girls of all ages as well as teenagers.

"Ideally we're appealing for new toys," said Tina. "Any unwanted gifts such as toiletries and luxuries would be fantastic, colouring books, pencils, crayons, reading books and games, anything that makes Christmas fun.

"For families in crisis the last thing you think about is chocolates. When you're struggling on a budget trying to feel yourselves you haven't got time for luxuries."

Shoppers in Winsford, she said, have always been very generous.

"As soon as our trolley fills up we take it over to the charity," added Tina. "Everything will be handed out. Nothing will be wasted."

Staff plan to boost the collection themselves through a reverse Advent calendar, by donating toys each day in the run up to Christmas.

Asda is urging shoppers to hand in gifts before December 10 although the appeal will be open until Christmas.

The store is also collecting food donations for mid Cheshire Foodbank.

Collection trolleys will be situated beside the community noticeboard.