TREES are trimmed, presents are wrapped and Advent calendars are opening for the big countdown -- but remember that some children on the Fylde won't be able to enjoy a family Christmas at home.

Your community-minded Citizen is backing the Care for Kids Christmas Appeal this year, which gives support and donates gifts to Fylde children who are sick or in care.

Care for Kids is aiming to raise funds to provide equipment and toys for youngsters in the four children's wards at Blackpool Victoria Hospital and in three children's homes in the area.

Organiser and Blackpool DJ Joe Curran said that all donations, no matter how small, count in helping to give the children a better Christmas.

"Without people's donations and without them giving valuable time and effort, Christmas time wouldn't be the same for some children on the Fylde coast.

"Every penny counts. Even two or three pounds counts. It all adds up at the end of the day," he said.

If you want to help a child have a better Christmas this year, send a cheque or postal order made out to Care for Kids to:

Citizen Care For Kids Appeal, The Citizen, St Annes Buildings, Clifton Drive North, St Annes, FY8 2NA. The appeal closes on December 21. Thank you.