HUNDREDS of tiny Rudolphs have made their way to children’s wards across the region as part of an annual joint initiative by The Northern Echo and Boyes department stores.

The teddy appeal, which delivers stuffed toys to children’s wards, this year sent red-nosed reindeer to Darlington Memorial Hospital, University Hospital of North Tees in Stockton and the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton.

It is the 18th year the appeal has taken place, and this week saw the last of the sackfuls of reindeer arrive by special delivery at Darlington Memorial, handed over by staff from The Northern Echo.

The appeal is sponsored by numerous businesses in the area and became an annual event after starting in 1999.

This year, toys will also be given out to cheer any children up who have to visit Accident and Emergency, and community nurses will also distribute them on their calls. Soft toys are donated by Boyes Department Store each year to help spread good cheer for sick children at Christmas.

Katherine Kitching, business manager at The Northern Echo, said: “The children loved how soft and cuddly the reindeer are.

“We are thrilled to be able to make a small difference to those children who find themselves unwell, or in hospital this Christmas through the gift of a toy, and would like to say a big thank you to the many businesses who support the initiative, particularly Boyes, our partners in the venture.”