KEIGHLEY Salvation Army has launched its annual Christmas Present Appeal.

The initiative aims to ensure no child in the town goes without a gift on Christmas Day.

People are asked to donate new toys and presents to support families struggling to make ends meet.

Last year, over 1,000 gifts were distributed to 400 families.

And Keighley Salvation Army fears that even more people will need help this festive season.

Penny Southgate, community manager at the church, says: "The Christmas Present Appeal is an opportunity for people in our communities to embrace the spirit of Christmas and give to families and individuals who have very little.

"We're incredibly grateful for the public’s generosity over the years, and we hope this year our appeal will bring some respite to those who are struggling the most.

"Christmas is a time when financial worries are brought into sharp focus as the cost-of-living crisis continues to have a devastating impact on families that can’t afford to heat their homes or put a nutritious meal on the table. Helping parents provide a gift for their child not only eases financial pressures, but helps bring the joy of Christmas into their homes."

People can take contributions of new, unwrapped toys – and food – to the High Street church until Friday, December 6.

Goods can also be dropped off at Asda, Morrisons and Sainsbury's supermarkets, and at the Skipton Building Society branch in Silsden.

Anyone wishing to make a monetary donation can go to justgiving.com/page/keighley-salvation-army-1728477948954

All gifts will be sorted and then distributed to children and families in the area through groups, schools and social services.

Presents can include items such as educational toys, baby clothes, bath toys, books including learn-to-read booklets for babies and toddlers, dolls, action figures, sports equipment and clothing, toiletries, gloves, scarves, hats, T-shirts and hair accessories, and gift vouchers for older children. There is a particular need for gifts aimed at teenagers.

For further information about the appeal and more ideas for presents, visit salvationarmy.org.uk/christmas-present-appeal

In the run-up to Christmas, Keighley Salvation Army is taking part in a City of Bradford Brass Band concert on Sunday, December 8.

The church will then host a Christingle service on December 15, at 10.30am, and a carol service on December 22, at 2pm.

There will also be a Christmas Day service at 10.30am.

For more about Keighley Salvation Army, call 01535 603494 or visit salvationarmy.org.uk/keighley