A TOP children's author has given her backing to a charity that helps children in the developing world.

Anne Fine, who lives in Barnard Castle, County Durham, is encouraging people to make their present-buying more ethical this year.

Ms Fine, who was the second Children's Laureate and has won several top literary prizes, including the Carnegie Medal and a Whitbread Award, is supporting World Vision's Alternative Gift Catalogue.

She said: "We are all drowning in 'stuff', with nowhere to put it. World Vision's Alternative Gift Catalogue is the most brilliant idea ever. Last year, my daughter bought me a goat in Africa.

"This year, I'm buying my daughters books for schools in the developing world, for children less fortunate than they were."

The catalogue gives people the chance to buy a range of life-changing items, including library books, stationery, school desks and chairs for communities in countries that include Zambia and Ethiopia.

Other gifts include a herd of goats, a flock of sheep, immunisation for children, sanitary water systems, emergency cooking sets and medical supplies.

They are delivered to a child, family or community in the developing world and a personalised Christmas card and gift certificate, detailing the item, is sent to the UK recipient of the gift.

Ms Fine said: "I'd recommend this scheme to everyone. It saves hassle, conscience and the planet, all in one. Suggest it to your friends and family - you'll never look back."

For details of alternative gifts, go to http://www.world vision.org