People are being invited to contribute to an appeal that could see hundreds of children from struggling families in Great Yarmouth given the gift of Christmas.

The Toys and Tins Appeal is run by the Salvation Army and each year helps more than 4,000 people across Norfolk by providing food and gift hampers for Christmas.

Last year alone it benefited more than 200 families in Yarmouth.

To make Toys and Tins a success, the Salvation Army hold fundraising events and gift services at schools and churches, and ask people to donate as generously as they can.

Great Yarmouth Salvation Army lieutenant Rob Symons (pictured) said: 'For many people in Norfolk, especially struggling families with children, Christmas can be a difficult time of year. The Toys and Tins appeal helps to make the holiday season as special as it should be.

'For more than 20 years the appeal has been helping to bring a little Christmas cheer to those in need in Norfolk. In these difficult times we'd like to help even more people, and with your donations we can.'

The appeal needs new toys for boys and girls of all ages, from babies through to teenagers, boxed if possible. Anything from model kits, action figures, to educational toys, cuddly toys and outdoor and educational toys.

Rob added that they cannot take second hand toys and asked people not to wrap their gifts.

They will also accept donations of Christmas related treats, such as chocolates, luxury biscuits and crackers, tinned meats and vegetables, tea, coffee and sugar. They will also accept toiletries for teens.

The appeal will be launched in Great Yarmouth by The Salvation Army and Radio Norfolk on Wednesday when people will be able to drop off their gifts in the Market Place in Yarmouth during the day.

Children from Edward Worlledge Junior School and Hillside School will be joining the Salvation Army for some singing at lunch time.Gifts can also be dropped off at The Salvation Army Charity shop, 167 King Street, or at the Citadel on Tolhouse Street.

For more information call Lieutenant Georgina Symons on 01493 858069 or 07983 399213 or visit www.salvationarmy.org.uk/anglia and click the link to Toys and Tins.