THOUSANDS of needy children across Southampton could be wearing a smile this Christmas, thanks to a Daily Echo-backed toy appeal.

Southampton Voluntary Services is aiming to find a toy for the 7,500 young people living within the city boundaries who are classed as "of concern".

The idea is simple. People and businesses either donate some cash or, preferably, buy a toy themselves. Everything collected will be handed to Santa before Christmas Eve to ensure a little happiness is brought to those youngsters who need it most.

The project started out 21 years ago as a second-hand toy scheme, but then as the number of children facing a presentless Christmas grew, so too did the project.

Though quality, unblemished second-hand toys will still be greatly accepted by organisers, the aim is to get every child a new boxed toy which they will open believing it is from Father Christmas and that a gift that has been bought especially for them.

Although the children don't know exactly where the presents have come from, when people offer to take part they are given a label with the child's name, sex and age on it - allowing donators to individually choose what toy they want the sponsored youngsters to get.

Last year's appeal collected more than 3,200 new toys for the city's children - an increase of almost 33 per cent on the year before.

However, this year organisers are hoping Southampton residents will be even more generous and enable them to give something to all 7,500 children aged up 16 years old.

One major toy manufacturer, Tomy, has already donated 2,000 boxed toys after allowing staff from Southampton Voluntary Services (SVS) to load up a van at its depot in Totton.

Now the organisation is challenging other businesses across the city, as well as individuals, to help them reach the magic figure.

SVS organiser Zoe Truong said: "This is a hugely beneficial and important scheme that will literally bring tons of happiness to youngsters across Southampton this Christmas.

"Spending a small sum of money to buy a present for these youngsters costs little, but it would mean a world of difference for them come Christmas Day when they can open a present that they simply would not have got otherwise."

The launch of the toy appeal was due to take place today in the parlour of Southampton mayor Brian Parnell at the Civic Centre.

Ring Zoe at Southampton Voluntary Services on 023 8033 7416 if you can help.