Thanks to Wiltshire Times readers, this year’s Salvation Army Toy Appeal brought Christmas joy to 140 underprivileged children  – 40 more than last year.

The appeal ran in the six weeks before Christmas, with hundreds of toys dropped off at points in Trowbridge, Melksham and Bradford on Avon.

Donations ranged from teddies and other soft toys to games and books and the generous support meant every child got four presents, delivered to their families by Social Services.

Stephen and Janice Smith, of Warminster, have been members of the Trowbridge Salvation Army since 1987 and have helped with the Toy Appeal for the last five years.

Mr Smith said: “The feedback has shown people are identifying with what we are doing.  When I looked around the hall and saw the quantity and quality of the donations it was very exciting.

“I can wake on Christmas morning knowing there will be 140 children waking up with smiles on their faces.”

Social worker Brian Devers-Martin said: “We are working with families who are having to choose between heating and how much food they put on the table.”

Colleague Sam Evans said: “The families really appreciate the gifts. It is great to see the community supporting the needs of the community.”