GIVE an extra gift this Christmas and bring a smile to the face of a sick child who is stuck in hospital.

Joe Curran, the campaign organiser for the Care For Kids appeal, which now has the backing of both The Citizen and The Wave, came up with this fantastic idea to make the prospect of spending Christmas in hospital a little more enjoyable for the Fylde's children this year.

The Care For Kids appeal provides support and donates gifts to children in special circumstances in medical and welfare situations.

Joe explained how things were going: "The campaign is going really well and we have already received lots of cheques and cash donations.

"Now we are collecting toys to take to sick children on Christmas morning and cheer them up a bit.

"I would just like everyone to stop and think about those less fortunate than themselves this Christmas.

"Toys and gifts can be left unwrapped at The Wave on Mowbray Drive, Blackpool.

"We are also still appealing for money with which we can purchase specific equipment.

"In addition to donating gifts to Victoria Hospital's Berry Ward we will also be taking presents to various sick and under-privileged children in the area and Brian House at Trinity Hospice."

Spokesman for Brian House, Roger Wolstenholme, commented on the appeal: "I think it is wonderful. We receive lots of support from all sections of the community in the Fylde.

"Brian House receives no statutory funding and all the running costs are paid through public donations for which we are very grateful.

"I am sure the children will be absolutely delighted with some extra toys."

You can still send your cheques and postal orders made out to Care for Kids to: Citizen Care For Kids Christmas Appeal, The Citizen, St Annes Buildings, Clifton Drive North, St Annes, FY8 2NA.