THE Cambs Times and the Anglia Co-operative Travel branch in March are hoping to create a special Christmas for needy families in the area - but they need your help.

It’s the second year that the pair have teamed up for the Christmas appeal, which aims to fill Santa’s Suitcase with toys for disadvantaged youngsters in March, Chatteris and surrounding villages.

Last year the suitcase brimming with treats was donated to the Peterborough Streets charity and this Christmas we will be backing the Ormiston Children and Families Trust, which supports vulnerable families in Fenland.

Travel branch manager Natasha Thatcher said: “Last year people were so generous and it was lovely to think that, through their help, we were able to make Christmas for children who would have otherwise had very little.

“With your help we can fill Santa’s Suitcase again with toys, cuddlies, games and puzzles that will make gifts for needy children in this area – you will literally be putting a smile on their faces.

“Unfortunately, due to to health and safety reasons, we are unable to accept second-hand toys.”

Cambs Times Editor John Elworthy said: “I’m delighted that the team at Anglia Co-operative Travel are willing to give of their time to help collect much-needed toys and gifts.

“Their enthusiasm for helping others is amazing so I’m really hoping as many as possible will get behind them and fill Santa’s suitcase many times over.”

To help us fill the suitcase, please take your toy donation along to the travel branch in Station Road, March.

Amanda Newman, service manager for two Ormiston Children and Families Trust children’s centres in the March and Chatteris area, said: “We are absolutely thrilled with this fantastic contribution from the Anglia Co-operative travel branch in March.

“There are unfortunately too many children living in poverty in rural Cambridgeshire and we know the situation is going to be very hard for many families this Christmas.

“Ormiston has seen demand for our services double in the last 18 months. Many parents will be forced to choose between buying food or heating this winter, and presents for children will be even lower down the list of priorities for those who are really struggling to make ends meet.

“We are here to support families through times of need and to make life as happy and healthy as it can be for local children. We are incredibly grateful to Anglia Co-operative and the Cambs Times - this will make Christmas special for those children.”