THE Hampshire Chronicle is again asking its readers to help give a child a happier Christmas.

We have launched our annual toy appeal, supporting Home-Start, Basics Bank and Friends of the Family, who help families through difficult times.

We hope to collect new toys for a special Santa delivery to youngsters, who may otherwise have little or nothing under the Christmas tree.

The appeal is made possible by the generosity of Waterstone's bookshop in The Brooks who have agreed to act as the collection point.

Store manager Fran Hackman said: "We are always happy to support local charities, especially ones helping children at Christmas.

"Customers have already been coming in asking about the appeal. They are always very generous and the appeal is becoming more popular."

Liz Marsden, Brooks marketing and communications manager, said: “This is the third consecutive year that we have been involved and we are more than happy to support such a good cause, particularly a local charities."

If you would like to donate a gift for a child, please take it, unwrapped, to Waterstone's on the second floor in The Brooks. Only brand new toys are wanted and must be suitable for boys and girls aged from toddlers to 13-years-old.