ONE of the region's football clubs is gearing up for its annual Christmas appeal to help sick children.

Middlesbrough Football Club is launching its annual appeal for gifts to go to children who spend the festive season in hospital.

Boro stars and club staff are backing Roary's Christmas Appeal for small toys and selection boxes, which the players will give out around the children's wards of local hospitals in the days before Christmas.

Boro and main sponsor BT Cellnet kicked off the appeal with 100 selection boxes each, while other companies in the area have also pledged their support.

Now the club's fans are being asked to support the appeal by donating small toys or selection boxes, which can be left at collection points at the MFC shops or the reception at the Riverside Stadium.

Boro manager Bryan Robson said: "This is our chance to bring a little cheer to Christmas for children who may otherwise have a pretty miserable time while everyone else is enjoying themselves.

"The fans have always been very generous in donating toys and selection boxes, and I'm sure they will again this year.

"The players all look forward to going around the hospitals to give out the presents. The looks of delight on the faces of the children when they see their Boro heroes is something you can never forget."

Mr Robson and members of the Boro first team will take gifts around South Cleveland, North Tees and Darlington Memorial hospitals, and the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle.