AROUND 500 underprivileged children will have a merrier Christmas this year thanks to the generosity of Knutsfordians.

A group of Knutsford residents have clubbed together to launch the Christmas Toy Appeal in aid of the Caritas Lalley Centre in Manchester.

The toys will be given to around 500 children from families in crisis and the group is appealing for Knutsfordians to get donating.

Egerton Primary School is also supporting the charity as part of their Operation Christmas Child.

Hannah Locke, one of the residents behind the appeal, said: “It’s fantastic that Egerton Primary School is supporting such a worthy charity this Christmas.

“It’s a great opportunity to educate our youngsters that as well as those underprivileged children living in other countries, there are also children much closer to home who are living in poverty and whom we can make a difference to at this time of year.”

Hannah said the group was in desperate need of main presents for girls and boys in the six to eight years and nine to eleven years age bracket.

They are also looking for jigsaw puzzles, board games, footballs, books for those aged five and above, stocking fillers and selection boxes.

All donations must be new and unwrapped and can be dropped off at the following businesses; Mr Simms Sweet Shop, The Orange Orchard, Christal Tips Nail Salon, Hallmark, all on King Street, Wright Marshall, Stuart Rushton, on Princess Street, Picturegraphs, on Canute Square, Mr Chips, and Knutsford Vets.

Donations can also be dropped off at the Celtic Toes Dance Group at Knutsford Sports Club on Saturdays from 10am-noon.

The deadline for donations is Saturday December 13.