MAKE this Christmas Day one in a million for needy children across the Fylde Coast with The Citizen Care For Kids Christmas Appeal.

Your community-minded Citizen has joined with former columnist Dr Feelgood (aka Joe Curran) to support Care For Kids.

CFK lends support and gives practical gifts such as toys and necessary equipment to children in special circumstances in medical and welfare situations.

It is funded by big-hearted licensees around the town who tirelessly fundraise throughout the year to support this vital campaign.

Town Centre Licensee's Forum co-ordinator and local DJ Joe Curran said: "I'm very pleased The Citizen has come on board with this worthy appeal and I'm sure the readers will support us whole-heartedly.

"Care For Kids visits Blackpool Victoria Hospital every Christmas and hands over very necessary equipment to the children's wards.

"This year our wish list is for about 60 items which includes 100 sets of bed linen, TVs and videos, Playstations, electric fans and, hopefully, a couple more Curtis Williams electric beds.

"We also provide toys and gifts for children in care around the area.

"Also this year, in early December, we are hoping to send out packages to children in Third World countries containing basic hygiene items such as soap and toothpaste and also some small toys because this is about fun as well as helping with basic needs.

"Please give all you can to make this Christmas perfect for a child."

Blackpool Citizen editor Alex Stuttard said: "I couldn't think of a more worthwhile local cause to back at this time of the year."

The Fylde-based organisation was formed 14 years ago by Joe after he held a Christmas party for just 18 children in Liverpool.

Eleven years ago the worthy cause moved permanently to the Fylde Coast and ten years down the line 864 lucky little ones across the North West enjoyed parties courtesy of CFK and were showered with essential equipment and festive fun.

The Citizen Care For Kids Christmas Appeal -- right at the heart of the community.

Send your cheques or postal orders made out to Care For Kids to:

Citizen Care For Kids Christmas Appeal, The Citizen, St Annes Buildings, Clifton Dr North, St Annes On Sea, FY8 2NA.