MORE than 500 disadvantaged children are getting Christmas presents after an overwhelming response to a charity toy appeal.

Organisers at The Salvation Army, in Consett, have been inundated with donations of new toys for families in the former Derwentside area.

They are now in the process of delivering them and are also supplying Christmas meals to those who could not otherwise afford it.

Co-ordinator Joe Toner said: “We have collected so many toys this year and had fantastic support from so many people there are too many to mention.

“There is a lot of deprivation in the area and these people do need this support.”

Staff and councillors on Durham County Council, Stanley Town Council, Gala Bingo, Metro Radio, Tesco and local schools have all supported the appeal with donations and financial help.

Brad Wilkinson, organiser of Consett Music Festival, donated £600 from money raised at the event earlier in the year.

He said: “All money we raise at the festival is given back in some way to the community and this is a great thing to help with.”