A CHARITY is launching a campaign to bring the Christmas cheer to disadvantaged children in the Harwich area.

The Salvation Army branch, in George Street, is looking for gifts for children aged up to 16.

Corps officer Richard Wearmouth, who took up the post in the town in July, said the gifts will then be given to social services to be given out to children who might otherwise not get a present at Christmas.

Lieutenant Wearmouth added: “Last year we had about 80 parcels of presents donated, so that must be about 300 gifts.

“It was a huge amount.

“I certainly hope we get the same amount this year as the need is still there, or is possibly even growing.

“I would think it means a lot to the children who receive them.

“The feedback from social workers is certainly positive.

“Some of the emergency donations on Christmas Eve go to children who would have had nothing at all.

“I was lucky as a child as I always had Christmas presents and to think of being a child without any pulls at your heart strings.

“It also takes the pressure off of parents as they won’t have to think about possibly going into debt in order to get their children presents.”

Ideas of gifts include educational toys, stationery, books, action figures, DVDs, gloves and hair accessories.

He said that some larger items, like scooters, were also welcome.

Donations can be dropped off at Superdrug, in High Street, Dovercourt, Second Wave hairdressers, in Main Road, Dovercourt, Accent Stationery, in High Street, Dovercourt and the Salvation Army branch.

Gifts should be dropped off before December 14.