THE Rotary Club of Altrincham has reached its target of collecting 2,000 new toys for needy families in Trafford this Christmas.

Generous Messenger readers helped provide gifts and non perishable foods which will be distributed through the Salvation Army HQ in Sale.

It’s the Altrincham Rotary’s biggest festive collection to date.

The Salvation Army’s Rachel Steward said: “Once again we have had tremendous support from the Altrincham Rotary Club, who have made local families wake up to a better Christmas this year.

“We have over 700 families who will receive not only toys but food boxes which we will deliver in time for Christmas.”

The Rotary Club also held collections for money to buy two new defibrillators for Altrincham town centre.

The target of £1,000 was reached with collections at Art with a Heart, Sainsburys and ASDA Living.

Rotary president Brendan Bates said: “Thanks to all those that gave generously to this appeal and to the hard work of Rotarians in our biggest collection so far.

“We will now be able to have two more defibrillators to match the two we bought from last year’s appeal and which will be placed in Altrincham town centre.”

Further toy appeal and money donations can still be made. Check altrinchamrotary.org.uk for further details.