OUR Caring Christmas appeal is now well under way and Bolton News readers are being as generous as always.

Donations are being made at the collection boxes in a range of venues throughout the town, including The Bolton News office, and this week a £20 cheque came in from a reader, Mrs E Grimshaw who was responding to our appeal for help.

But more is still needed to ensure the hundreds of needy children we help can have a happy Christmas this year.

Every single penny donated will help a needy child or teenager as Bolton Lions, who organise the appeal in conjunction with The Bolton News, aim to fulfil their obligation to almost 600 families in need.

More than 900 children received sacks of toys last year thanks to the appeal — these are children who, without your help and support, would be facing a very bleak festive season.

So if you can help, in any way, please do. Why not pop an extra toy in the basket when buying for your own children or can you spare a couple of pounds to help a teenager?

Church toy services are being held all over Bolton, with children, donating toys and gifts, and the latest service was held at Christ Church Walmsley, where kind-hearted youngsters took toys along to a service to help boost the appeal.