HUNDREDS of disadvantaged children will have a happier Christmas after sacks of toys were distributed via the Observer’s toy appeal.

More generous donations were picked up this week from across the area - ready for social services to come and collect for children in their care.

Collections were made from our partners Bidfood in Leigh Road, Slough,Coop Funeral Services in Parlaunt Road, Langley, and Windsor Royal Shopping centre.

Then children’s services in South Bucks, Windsor and Maidenhead and Slough, came to collect their share of the toys. Parveen Shah, social worker for the children and disability team of South Bucks District Council, said: “This year we had children asking ‘is that kind man going to give us some toys again?’ “Because of The Observer some children now have a Christmas that they otherwise wouldn’t. We are really quite humbled when we see their faces light up.”

Jane Clarke, 38, parenting worker for the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, said: “It is great because they get presents they otherwise wouldn’t get.

“It is something to look forward to for them.”

With the help of AGO Services, which collects and delivers toys on our behalf, and Space Station, which provides storage units free of charge, we have been able to distribute more than 600 toys to the community.

Andrew Scott, communications officer for the Slough Children’s Services Trust added: “We are very grateful to the Slough Observer and the people of Slough for their generosity, and Space Station. This ensures that every child has a present on Christmas Day.”

The Trust’s Breakaway team, who provide a respite to families with people with learning difficulties, also took away a hoard of toys.

Nichola Flexman, residential childcare officer, 28, said: “This means we can give them a gift each from Breakaway at Christmas and more when they come into respite care.”

Food giant Bidfood rallied for the appeal. Facilities manager Mac Kumpas said: “Our colleagues at Bidfood Slough are keen to be active in the local community.”