OUR annual Lions/Chronicle Christmas Toy Appeal is launched this week, and we need gifts of every description to help put a smile on the faces of deprived children across Mid Cheshire.

Vale Royal Lions are currently liaising with other groups to pinpoint where the need is greatest. The Lions will also take on the huge task of sorting out all the gifts and making sure they are delivered to the various addresses in time.

Toys and gifts are needed for all age groups, including teenagers. They must be new and we ask that they remain unwrapped to help with the sorting issue.

People can take their gifts to the Joshua Tree shop in Weaver Square, Northwich, next door to Thorntons. The shop is normally open on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10am-2pm. However it is suggested you phone the shop on 01606 331858 before visiting to ensure that it is open.

Members of the congregations of Holy Trinity, Castle Methodist and St Luke’s can leave donations at their respective churches. All gifts should have been donated by Tuesday, December 9, in order to allow for sorting and delivery in time for Christmas.

Vale Royal Lions president Rob Brown said: “Please give as generously as possible and bring happiness and smiles to some under-privileged children.”