Cambs Times readers are helping to ensure some extra Christmas sparkle for hard-pressed families in the area.

Books, games and toys galore have been donated to the Santa’s Suitcase appeal launched by the Anglia Co-operative travel branch in March.

Staff at the Broad Street branch are appealing for donations to help fill Santa’s Suitcase with gifts for youngsters which will be distributed by the Ormiston Children and Families Trust to families they support in the March and Chatteris area.

Branch manager Natasha Thatcher said: “People are being so generous and, thanks to their help, they will make a real difference to families this Christmas.

“If you haven’t yet donated a gift there’s still time to put a smile on a child’s face – we are collecting up until 5.30pm on December 19.”