PEOPLE are being asked to help make this Christmas a happier one for disadvantaged children and families.

The Blackburn branch of The Salvation Army is launching its annual Christmas Present Appeal, asking shoppers to donate new toys.

From Saturday (24th), to Sunday December 16, The Range garden centre, Blakewater Road, will be collecting gifts for children, teenagers and families in need which will be distributed by The Salvation Army though local groups and social services.

Captain James Van Cleef from the Blackburn branch in Salford, said: "Last year we received enough toys to help more than 300 children.

"We also collected food to make parcels for elderly people in the borough.

"We hope to see that level of generosity again this year.

"Christmas can be a stressful time for many families, there's a lot of financial demand and people struggle with the expense.

"The Christmas Present Appeal allows to us to help so that people can enjoy some family time rather than worrying too much, which is what Christmas should be about.

"In that way anyone who donates makes a real difference to someone's life."

People are asked to donate new, unwrapped toys.

If used items are donated they will be distributed in other ways.

All tinned food is welcome for parcels for the elderly and in need.

Last year the appeal was done in partnership with ASDA, and many branches of the supermarket are taking part again this year.

For children aged up to three ideal gifts would be soft toys, colourful and fun educational toys, cot mobiles and baby clothes; for three-five, dolls, cars, lorries, CDs (music and nursery rhymes), suitable DVDs, colouring sets, and books; for five-nine, educational games and toys, stationery, CDs and family friendly DVDs, puzzles; for nine-12, games and toys, stationery, CDs, T-Shirts, hair ornaments; 13-16m, CDs, DVDs, books, toiletries, gloves, scarves, hats.

For more information please visit www.salvationarmy.org.uk.