THE Salvation Army has collected hundreds of toys, teddies, games, tins of food and biscuits from The Press as it faces a dramatic surge in demand for help from York families struggling to cope with the cost of Christmas.

Our annual Toys & Tins Appeal has given a major boost to the organisation, which has seen an increase in the number of statutory agency referrals requesting its assistance this festive season.

Last year, it helped 550 children with Christmas gifts and over 220 families with food, but that number has already increased to 680 children and 317 families.

The appeal is still collecting items for Independent Domestic Abuse Services (IDAS), formerly the York’s Women’s Aid Refuge, which helps victims of domestic violence.

Gifts can be left at our office reception in Walmgate during weekday office hours by no later than this coming Wednesday, December 14.