Rochdale's "giving back" scheme which has been successfully running for more than a decade is back again this festive season to make sure less fortunate children have gifts for Christmas.

Last year, more than 6,000 toys were distributed among Rochdale's children as part of Rochdale Council's staff-run Giving Back charity which works in partnership with the Council, Rochdale Football Club and Your Trust.

Volunteers make sure the toys are matched with the age and interests of the recipient and make sure they reach the borough's less fortunate children so that they have some presents to open come December 25.

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Since 2013, the appeal has provided much-needed festive cheer for thousands of children and teenagers - and now is currently collecting donations as part of this year's Christmas toy appeal.

Council policy advisor, Helen Walton, from the Giving Back charity who started the appeal was recently awarded a British Empire Medal for her work.

Ms Walton said: "We are already receiving requests for donations and heat or eat will be a real choice for many families this winter and Christmas will be something they just can’t afford, so every donation we receive goes to a child who would otherwise be likely not to have any presents to unwrap.

"We rely on the generosity of people and businesses in our borough, and together we can make a difference for the borough’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged children at a time when it is most needed.” 

To help, residents can donate an unwrapped, new gift that is suitable for a child up to 16 years old and leave it at a local library of Your Trust leisure centre before Friday, December 13.

Gifts for babies and teenagers are especially welcome, the charity says, as fewer were received for these age groups last year.

There are also extra collection points open at the Rochdale Riverside retail and leisure destination, RRG Toyota on Edinburgh Way and the Crown Oil Arena.

Organisers are also asking people to consider donating a more environmentally friendly gift and supporting local shops where they can in an effort to cut down on excess and waste.

Cllr Rachel Massey, cabinet member for children’s services and education at Rochdale Council, added: “Helping a parent or carer provide a gift for their child is more than simply financial support, it brings the joy of Christmas into their home and this appeal helps provide local children and families with gifts who would otherwise likely go without.

"Sadly our Christmas Toy Appeal is needed more than ever but every year I am humbled to see so much generosity - if you can buy at least one extra present, you’ll really bring some joy to a local young person.” 

Presents can also be ordered online and sent directly to the appeal to Giving Back, Christmas Toy Appeal, Rochdale Borough Council, Number One Riverside, Smith Street, Rochdale OL16 1XU.

Got a story? Email me Olivia.bridge@newsquest.co.uk