Toys and goodies donated by Echo readers given to families

Youngsters were celebrating Christmas at the Holly Jolly party at Townsend Children’s Centre, where many of the gifts collected by the Echo Toy Appeal will be distributed to around 50 families in need.

Further presents will be given out at the centre today and on Christmas Eve, ensuring children whose parents are struggling to afford gifts on top of everyday expenses will still enjoy a happy Christmas.

Local mum Kerry Hemmings, 27, said it would make a big difference for her three youngsters, Jasmine, nine, Lily, five, and four-year-old Bailey.

“My husband was made redundant recently so we really haven’t got much money at the moment, with three children to look after,” she said.

“We have managed to get them a couple of bit and pieces, but the gifts we get from the centre make a big difference, it means a lot to us and we always tell the children where they are from so they can say ‘thank you’.

“They are always really excited when Christmas comes along and we really appreciate people being so generous so they can enjoy it as much as everyone else.”

Jasmine, who was enjoying games, hot food and Krazy Kev’s magic tricks alongside some 200 other children and parents at the party yesterday, said: “Christmas is my favourite time of year, alongside my birthday, and the best bit is the presents.

“It’s really nice people give presents away to help other people at Christmas.”

The centre, which is also distributing food parcels collected by St Christopher’s Church in Southbourne, welcomed Father Christmas to hand out gifts yesterday, and the courtyard was filled with fake snow and Christmas trees.

Centre manager Naomi Unwin said: “These presents are really appreciated by the families who come here, some of whom are quite reliant on our support.

“As well as toys for the children there are treats for mums as well.

“It has been a brilliant party so far, there is a real community here so it is great for parents as well.”