KIND-hearted people across Hampshire donated 4,500 presents to Southampton’s neediest children in an annual toy appeal.

The Southampton Voluntary Services (SVS) Toy Appeal now in its 33rd year was launched by Daily Echo columnist and TV presenter Fred Dinenage.

The family projects team received a list of children in need which they handed out to generous Daily Echo readers.

Each person chose a suitable present for the age and sex of the child up to the value of £10 and wrapped it up ready for Christmas.

The appeal was such a success every child on the list will receive a gift.

Rowena Singh, who helped organise the appeal, said: “We can’t tell you how thrilled we are with the response from the city which is largely due to the extra publicity in the Daily Echo.”