THE Advertiser Series 2004 Toy Appeal is under way and organisers are keen to get everything wrapped up.

Contributions of gifts and vouchers are invited, along with cheque and cash donations, to brighten Christmas Day for less fortunate children in the Durham, Consett, Stanley and Chester-le-Street areas. Launched several years ago by The Advertiser, the Toy Appeal has proved a worthy means of fulfilling the Christmas present dreams of needy children, allowing as many as possible to get the specially-requested gifts that are beyond their parents' means, so avoiding disappointment on Christmas morning.

Thanks to the appeal, hundreds of gifts are collected and distributed through Social Services for children of all ages, from babies to teenagers.

Social workers speak to parents, find out what their children would really love, then see if they can find the gift among the donations. If not, they will try to buy it from the cash donations to the appeal, or buy gift vouchers so that families can go out and buy exactly what they want.

Vouchers, cassettes, books and board games are particularly popular with older children and in this age of sophisticated toys and electronic games, donations of this type are very much appreciated, as are traditional toys such as dolls, cars, jigsaws and construction sets for younger children.

Gifts should be taken to Suite Two, Blackmoor Court, St Cuthbert's Avenue, Framwellgate Moor, Durham by December 17. Or, for further information, telephone (0191) 3845451.

Cheques or cash donations can be made by calling in to The Advertiser office at Ruth First House, Claypath, Durham City, or to one of the following Social Services offices: Atherton Street, Durham City; Front Street, Stanley; Front Street, Chester-le-Street; or Medomsley Road, Consett.