Chester FC manager Neil Young, business development and marketing manager Dave Riche and a number of players welcomed Jeff Banks and Paul Whittaker from BiG Storage to the Swansway Chester Stadium to help promote The Chronicle and BiG Storage 2013 Toy Appeal.

Dave Riche said: “Chester FC are delighted to be supporting the BiG Toy Appeal. It is amazing that the local community has thrown its weight behind this fantastic appeal once again.

“I know that over the last eight years the appeal has attracted tens of thousands of donations, every single one of which has helped to make a difference to a child in need."

“Chester FC are pleased to hear that BiG Storage’s target of 5,000 toys is well on target to be surpassed this year, and this will help to ensure that there are plenty of presents for the under privileged and vulnerable children who will be helped by the local charities based in and around Chester.”

Paul Whittaker from BiG Storage added “Chester has shown what a generous city it is, as we have had a wonderful response yet again to our BiG Appeal.

“However we still need more, as although we aim to collect more toys than ever this year, we also aim to help more charities and more children. So when out shopping please pick up that extra toy and drop it in at our facility.”

The local charities which the Chester Chronicle and BiG Storage are supporting this year include: Save the Family, Miles of Smiles, The Hospice of the Good Shepherd and The Children’s Adventure Farm Trust among many others.

Jeff Banks, BiG Storage’s social media and business development manager, added: “It’s my first appeal with BiG Storage and I have been overwhelmed at the response from the local community.

“The toys and gifts are streaming in for primary school children but we still a lot more need presents for the under fours and teenagers.”

Toys can be dropped off at BiG Storage in Sealand Road, Chester. Call 01244 399993.

Gifts can also be given in at the SAS Daniels reception, 35 White Friars, Chester, CH1 1QF.