ONE final push is needed to reach the Christmas Appeal's £4,000 target.

Thanks to generous Evening Advertiser readers, more than £3,500 has rolled into the appeal's account so far.

For the first time, the Adver will use the money raised, to pay for Christmas parties for children's charities and organisations.

This way, more children than ever will benefit.

Nationwide, which has it's UK headquarters in Pipers Way, got the appeal off to a cracking start with a cheque for £1,000.

Shortly after, Sainsbury's in Stratton St Margaret donated £200 worth of toys.

Dean Cogan, senior duty manager of the supermarket, urged Swindonians to dig deep to reach the target.

He said: "We are very committed to the community and do all we can to help.

"This is a very good appeal and we were only too happy to support it.

"I would ask people to do the same and work with the Adver to reach the target."

The beneficiaries this year are: The Walcot Family Centre, The West Swindon Family Centre, The Welcome Centre, Homestart, Chalet Special School, The Koalas Opportunity Group, The Green Hut, Uplands Special School, Brimble Hill Special School, The Otters Group and Swindon Women's Refuge.

Anyone wishing to make a donation has until early next week, when the eight collection boxes, which are dotted around Swindon stores, will be emptied.

Michelle Leighton, community affairs manager for Nationwide, said she was pleased to back our appeal. "We are thrilled the appeal reaches out to make a real difference to children's lives."

To make a donation to the appeal online, click here.

Tell us about your fundraising event, click here.