THE Rotary Club of Altrincham and Salvation Army in Sale joined forces to bring Christmas cheer.

They collected 1200 toys which will be sent as Christmas presents to children of deprived Trafford families.

The club held three collections, two at Sainsbury’s Altrincham and one in the new Altrincham Forward offices opposite the market, where a grotto with elves and Santa appeared.

Toy donations were given to the already mounting collection which included 40 cuddly teddy bears given by an anonymous donor at the Railway pub in Hale.

David Williams, the president of the Rotary Club of Altrincham, said: ”We were given a target of 1000 new toys and managed to receive 1200 toys, which was amazing.

“This year we set ourselves the same target and we went ahead and held three collections with the help of Rotarians. We managed not only to collect toys but also raise enough money for defibrillators for Altrincham town centre.

“This is all done with the generosity of local people and some help from larger companies including Rackhams and Wilkinson stores.

“Six collection points were arranged including Luxistore and Sausolito Café in Timperley, the Railway Pub in Hale, Ashbrooks of Sale and Salvation Army HQ Ashton Lane Sale, whose help was invaluable. Our thanks go to everyone who got involved.”

Rachel Steward of the Salvation Army said she was overwhelmed by the generosity of Trafford residents.