THOUGHTFUL shop workers have launched a festive toy appeal to ensure that no child wakes up on Christmas Day without a present.

Caring staff at the Co-op store in Greenock's Eldon Street are appealing for the community to back the Cash for Kids Mission Christmas appeal by handing in new toys for children in need.

Joanne Thomson, the store manager, says all the Co-op shops across Inverclyde are collecting toys, including Kilmacolm, Dubbs Road in Port Glasgow and the stores in Gourock's Shore Street and Cardwell Road.

Joanne said: "It's all about helping kids.

"I've been saying to the teams that we know what our kids will wake up to on Christmas morning - they get far too much.

"If we can give that bit of joy to a kid who will wake up to something then it's worth doing.

"So this is to get the message out there to let people know we are doing this."

People can hand in new toys to the stores until December 7 and Christmas bucket collections will also be held in the stores.

Joanne added: "We're going to be doing bake sales and raffles and we're holding a fun day on December 4.

"All the money raised will go to Cash for Kids."

Thomas Brown, area manager for the Co-op, added: “As a community retailer we are delighted to support this appeal – connecting communities, bringing people together and making a difference locally is at the heart of our Co-op.

"It is heart-warming that so many people remember to think of others at this time of year.

"Their gifts will help to spread the magic of Christmas to those less fortunate and who are in need, and we would like to thank our colleagues, members and customers for all of their kindness, generosity and support – they will make a real difference to a local child in their community this Christmas.”