Ref. 75660-139TEDDIES which help keep children calm during times of trauma have been presented to the emergency services in Swindon.

The Highworth and District Lions' Club donated 50 bears through a scheme which has been running for the last five years.

Some of the soft toys were given to Westlea fire station on Tuesday.

Club President Frieda Cox said: "They go to children who have been involved in something terrifying and they have our badge on them.

"When I delivered them to the fire station they said three bears had already been given out this week. This is what the Lions' Club is all about."

Sub officer Perry Payne, of Westlea Fire Station, said the teddies were invaluable.

"They are brilliant," he said. "Road traffic accidents are a traumatic event for everybody concerned, particularly children.

"When we give something like this to them it is the first thing they can associate with. It's the right thing at the right time for the right reason and helps calm them down.

"The teddies are useful any time a child is in need of comfort."

Club members have also collected toys, clothes, shoes and cooking equipment for the Tsunami Appeal and have made a cash donation.