A Christmas toy appeal for children is desperately in need of your donations.

The Observer-backed initiative set up by Accrington Lions is urging residents to help families in need in Hyndburn.

The community group gave gifts to more than 150 children last year but fears this year many children will have empty stockings.

Lions member May Edmundson said: “Unfortunately with so few donations it looks like we’ll be incredibly short, which is heartbreaking for the families that need our help.

“Last year we helped around 185 children but without support we won’t be able to help a fraction of that number.”

Gifts will be distributed in Accrington on Saturday, December 19 from 10am to 4pm.

May said: “The gifts are from ‘Father Christmas’, we don’t get to see the children choose their presents, instead the parents come and pick a main present and some stocking fillers.

“The parents get to take them home and wrap them up, so the kids don’t know.

“It’s such a tough time for a lot of people, struggling people are having to cut back and many are having to use food banks, so we’re trying to help families as much as we can for Christmas.”

The group tries to ensure there is a good variety of toys available for every age range.

May added: “We know people can only do what they can, but if anyone can donate books that are in good condition, toys that are nearly new and games with all their pieces we would be so grateful.”

Fellow Lion Suzzan Gilbert said the collection day is often very emotional.

She said: “Last year a few of the parents were actually in tears because they thought they weren’t going to be able to give their children any gifts on Christmas day.”

The last chance to donate gifts is Tuesday, December 15 at the Globe Centre, St James Square, Accrington or Community Solutions, Elmfield Hall, Hyndburn Road, Church.

Other locations are Pampered Pets, 378 Union Road, Oswaldtwistle; Cheeky Duck Designs, Unit 15, Richmond Industrial Estate, Accrington; Acorn Community News and Oswaldtwistle Mills Business and Conference Centre, in Oswaldtwistle, Clifton Mill, Pickup Street; and Simply Gifts, Accrington Market Hall.

Call Suzzan on 01254 399550 or May on 07806 093068 for transport or email accrington.lions@yahoo.co.uk for a visit.