A CHARITY which allows disadvantaged children in Trafford to have a Christmas is launching its biggest campaign this year.

The Toy Appeal make Christmas stockings for disadvantaged children across Cheshire and Greater Manchester.

Last year, around 1,900 children received a toy sack which included eight presents based on their age and gender.

This year the charity wants to double its efforts and bring joy for over 3,000 children from babies to 17-year-olds.

The brainchild of the charity is Cheshire couple, Dee and Chris Drake, they founded The Toy Appeal in 2013 to help local underprivileged children at Christmas.

The children are referred to The Toy Appeal by schools, social workers and charities. Each case is vetted to ensure the toy sacks go to the right homes.

Dee said: “It’s a lot of work but otherwise, these children would receive nothing at Christmas

“It’s incredible how it’s grown in five years. The fundraising, toy sorting and distribution are now massive operations.

"As well as fundraising, we rely on toy donations at our drop-off points. More local schools and businesses are involved than ever before. We simply couldn’t do it without their support."

Businesses in Trafford, supporting the appeal this year are, Fox restaurant at Hale Barns, Cardinal Maritime, Event Bhudda, The Cartwright Group, LIFT- financial , Smart Storage in Altrincham and Bearly Loved.

Local schools such as Hale prep, Loreto, Ambrose, Bollin prep and Forest prep will also support the charity this year.

Dee said “Last year was a huge success thanks to over 200 volunteers who sorted, counted and created the toy sacks.

“We’ve committed to helping almost twice as many children this year, so we need twice as many toys.”

For more details visit: thetoyappeal.com

This year The Toy Appeal has been recognised at two awards ceremonies. Dee was nominated for Cheshire Woman of the Year and was winner of 2017 Inspiring Woman of the Year – Community Award sponsored by BBC Radio Manchester.