PILED high with toys, the Salvation Army headquarters at the end of the Christmas Toy Appeal resembled Santa's Grotto.

A team of volunteers spent Tuesday busy sorting mountains of games, cuddly toys, puzzles and other gifts, in a bid to bring needy families some Christmas cheer.

The Christmas Toy Appeal, organised by the Salvation Army in conjunction with the Gazette and Herald and Superdrug, touched the hearts of hundreds of local people and van-loads of toys and gifts were donated to help make Christmas special for children who might otherwise have a very bleak day.

"My list tells me there are a lot of children who would not otherwise have Christmas toys," said Captain Mary Wolfe, of the Salvation Army.

"Christmas is a time for giving to others and the real meaning of Christmas is to give to those who do not have very much."

This is the second year the Gazette has helped out with the toy appeal and dozens of people dropped toys and gifts at the Gazette offices.

Baby clothes and toys, teddy bears, puzzles, fashion accessories and toiletries were all handed in to help share the spirit of Christmas. This year 185 youngsters will benefit.

On the day of sorting, Captain Wolfe received the names of a further 24 families who needed help. He hoped to be able to help.

But the quest to spread the Christmas spirit will not come to an end when the toys have been handed out.

The Salvation Army will be laying on a special Christmas lunch in Chippenham for people who might otherwise be alone or have nowhere to go.

Anyone who finds themselves alone or is unable to prepare a meal is invited to attend this year's Salvation Army Christmas dinner in Foghamshire. Contact Captain Wolfe on (01249) 650066 for details.