PRESENTS are starting to take over office space at the Journal, as the 14th annual Christmas appeal gathers momentum.

Our readers have responded as generously as ever and, as fish-and-chip shop owner Derek Mitchell says, "Every little helps".

Derek and his wife, Mona, run Pinewood Fish and Chips, in Bemerton Heath, Salisbury, and have contributed to the appeal for four years running.

This is the second time they have donated the charity "cash pot", filled by fish and chip customers throughout the year.

This year, they handed more than £84 for toys to add to the expanding heap.

The collection pot from their chip shop in Amesbury, which made £64, has already been spent on gifts for the appeal.

These presents really do make a difference and there is less than two weeks to get presents in before our appeal ends on December 13.

Gifts can be wrapped for any age-group, from babies and toddlers to teenagers and pensioners.

Our aim is to ensure that every needy person in our community can share the Christmas spirit and receive a present.

So, next time you are out shopping, please spare a thought for someone less fortunate than yourself and consider buying them a gift.

Then, please wrap it, label it to indicate whether it is for a baby, a boy or girl, a man or woman - and what age-group, and hand it in at the Journal offices at Rollestone House, 8-12 Rollestone Street, Salisbury, opposite the bus station.

With the help of social services and local charities, we will ensure presents reach those in need in time for Christmas.