STAFF and residents at River's Edge Court in Okehampton are asking the local community to join them in spreading a little festive cheer amongst those who need it this Christmas.

On behalf of the UK's leading children's charity Barnardo's, McCarthy and Stone has launched a Christmas toy appeal at the development on Oaklands Drive, in order to collect a variety of wonderful gifts that can be given to disadvantaged children across the region.

Aileen King, regional sales and marketing director for McCarthy & Stone, said: 'Whether big or small, a gift on Christmas Day will bring smiles to children everywhere, but not everyone is so lucky. 

'We're hoping that our Christmas Toy Appeal in aid of Barnardo's will prove to be a fantastic initiative that will help give less fortunate children in our region a very merry Christmas.

'Barnardo's achieves some remarkable things for children, both here, and across the UK, but they really need as much support as possible to continue this good work.

'If any members of the public could help by donating a gift for a child this Christmas, we would urge you to make a difference by bringing along a new toy to the sales office at River's Edge Court, and we'll do the rest.'

Barnardo's provides much needed support for over 100,000 children across 400 projects nationally.

McCarthy and Stone chose it as its 'Charity of the Year' in October, and they aim to raise at least £50,000 for the organisation over the next 12 months.

You can take your donations to River's Edge Court from 9am to 5pm from Monday to Friday. All donations will be gratefully received.