DISADVANTAGED children in Halton are set for a Christmas boost with a donation of brand-new toys worth £4,000.

The contribution comes from Merseyflow and Merseylink, who have joined forces to help kick-start Halton Children’s Centre’s annual Christmas Toy Appeal.

Each has pledged £2,000 in toys and gifts.

Merseyflow is now encouraging its staff and customers to use its walk-in centre in Manor Park, Runcorn, as a drop-off point for toy donations.

The toys must be new and unopened, and should be dropped off at the Merseyflow walk-in centre by December 9.

The team is seeking a variety of gifts and toys for all children up to the age of 18.

Helen Williams, marketing manager at merseyflow, said: "Every year we have had an amazing response and are overwhelmed by the generosity of our thoughtful customers and staff.

"We’re hoping this year will be no different as we begin to collect donations for this excellent cause and are urging people to get involved.

"Supporting the local community in Halton and the surrounding areas is very important to us, which is why we wanted to give the appeal a jump start with a donation of our own to ensure every child in Halton has the Christmas they deserve."

Merseyflow’s staff are already adding to the collection by donating toys and Christmas presents for the cause.

This marks the sixth year that Merseyflow has supported Halton Children’s Centres during the festive season, having collected hundreds of donations in the past.

Hugh O’Connor, general manager of the Merseylink Consortium, said: "We’ve supported Halton Children Centre’s appeal for several years now and are happy we’re able to contribute again to this wonderful cause.

"Every child deserves a present at Christmas and we’re hopeful that more people get involved and donate."

Denise Caldwell, early help officer at Runcorn Children’s Centre, said: "We’d like to give special thanks to Merseyflow and Merseylink for their generous donations.

"Every toy and gift donated is greatly appreciated and will be given to local children here in Halton this Christmas.

"Even the smallest donation is welcome and will go a long way to helping every child in Halton wake up to a gift on Christmas morning."

The merseyflow walk-in centre is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 7pm, and on Sunday from 9am to 6pm.

The address is 9 Howard Court, Manor Park, Runcorn, Cheshire, WA7 1SJ.