THERE is less than a month to go until Christmas. And for us here at The Press that means one thing: it is time to launch our annual Toys & Tins Appeal.

This year, as usual, we’re asking readers to donate new toys and other gifts, such as books, dolls and games. These will all be given to children from disadvantaged families or youngsters at a York refuge. The aim is to make sure they all have at least one present when they wake up on Christmas Day.

It is a very simple idea, but one that we believe is in the very best spirit of Christmas. So please, if you can, give a gift this year. Just bring it to reception at our offices in Walmgate, and we’ll do the rest.