ALTRINCHAM Rotary Club and the Salvation Army in Sale have joined together to launch the Christmas Toys and Tins appeal - and they are appealing to Messenger readers to back their efforts.

Over the years the readers of the Messenger have rallied around and generously brought in many toys and tins of food for needy families in the Trafford area.

This year the target is to collect 2000 toys for families in need in the borough who would not normally get anything to open on Christmas morning.

The toys must be new and unwrapped and suitable for children aged up to18.

The organisers also aim to provide a Christmas food hamper for each family consisting of tins and Christmas treats that families could not usually afford to buy.

Ken Garrity, of the Altrincham Rotary Club, said: "This is our third year of collecting toys and tins. The number needed also grows. H

"However, we are delighted with the response from Messenger readers and the good folk of this area over the years. Hopefully we will reach our targets for this year.”

Rachel Steward, from the Salvation Army, added: "Each year we are conscious of the fact that for many local families Christmas is a stressful time and they don't have the financial means to make Christmas special for their families.

"With the assistance of Altrincham Rotary Club we are privileged to be a part of helping make Christmas a happy occasion”.

There are many drop off points at:

Hale - The Railway pub; Altrincham centre - Marks and Spencer, Art with a Heart, Boots, Randalls Jewellers and TSB Bank, all on George Street.

Sale -Ashbrooks Furniture Store ,Washway Road; Salvation Army HQ Ashton Lane.

Timperley - Sausolito Coffee Shop, Luxistores and Bocadillos, on Stockport Road.

Drop off in opening hours up to December 23.

* Altrincham Rotary Club will also be helping Santa in the area. He will be visiting ASDA superstore Broadheath on December 12, 17and 23, where again shoppers can deposit toys and tins.