KIND Tele readers have been praised for digging deep to help underprivileged children across Inverclyde have a happier Christmas.

Officials from the Salvation Army have thanked the Telegraph for its support of the charity’s annual Toy Appeal — and praised everyone who handed items into our Crawfurd Street office.

Our loyal readers have once again shown their generosity and donated a mountain of toys which are currently being sorted and delivered to less fortunate youngsters and families throughout the district.

The annual appeal has been on the go for more than 20 years and helps brighten up Christmas for hundreds of children aged up to 10.

Bags of toys were collected by appeal organiser Maureen Pentland and Major Lynn Farmer from the Salvation Army, who are based in the Regent Street citadel.

Tele advertising executive Helen Small made the presentation.

Major Farmer, who is overseeing her first toy appeal, said: “A lot of families will be helped by this. To see the community coming together like this is great.

“We would like to thank everyone who has donated for their generosity.

“The kindness of the public has overwhelmed me.” Mrs Pentland leads the team of volunteers who work tirelessly each year to make the Toy Appeal such a success.

She said: “The Tele support has been fantastic — it’s a big help.” Major Farmer also praised Mrs Pentland and the volunteers for their dedication.

She said: “It’s a fantastic team that’s working on it.” But Salvation Army chiefs say Christmas is not the only time of year for giving and have reminded people that they host various events and clubs throughout the year.

The organisation is also on hand to offer support and advice to local families on a range of issues.

Major Farmer said: “If any families want any support then we are here during the year.

“It’s not just about a gift at Christmas — it’s about being a community all year round.”