FAMILIES across the city will be given a helping hand all thanks to the generosity of the residents of Winchester.

Now in its second year, the Hampshire Chronicle's Christmas appeal has called on donations for three Winchester charities with their Toy Appeal in a bid to ensure underprivileged children have a gift under the tree.

Over the last four weeks staff at Waterstones, in the Brooks centre, have taken more than 400 presents. They have been split between the Basics Bank, Friends of the Family and Homestart.

“It makes a huge difference to our families,” said Sue Broadbent, vice chair at Basics Bank. “They come for food and are delighted to take away something for the children. It makes a real difference to how our families cope at Christmas.”

Last year donations were made to only one charity – the Basics Bank – who said they were awash with presents.

Now two more charities have been fortunate enough to take part, something they say will help spread some festive cheer.

Viv Wheeler, chair of trustees of Friends of the Family and trustee for Basics Bank, said: “Last year we had tears because people were so overwhelmed with the generosity of Winchester. We’re just so appreciative because there are families out there having a tough time and we know this makes a real difference.”

Sam Hunt, the five-13 project leader at Friends of the Family, said: “It really does help the families focus on something else. They’re worrying about wanting to give their children the best and this just alleviates that burden.”

Everything from teddies to Peppa Pig colouring books and board games have been donated this year which charity coordinator Anne Macpherson, of Homestart, said will go a long way to making families feel more at ease during an otherwise busy time of year.

“We have been talking to families and they are just so grateful that that part of Christmas is taken care of,” she said. “Knowing this is done they can worry about gas and food. It will make the children happier because their parents have less stress.”

Liz Marsden, marketing, events and administrative coordinator at the Brooks said: “We have had such a fantastic response from people who have come in to donate. We’re delighted to support it and look forward to doing it all again next year.”

Keith Redbourn, editor of the Hampshire Chronicle, gave a special thanks to readers for their generosity.