Riley Watson, nine, helps save Christmas for children at York's refuge

Riley Watson told his mother he had enough toys, and asked if could she give some to the children at the refuge who didn't have enough.

Friends and family heard what he had done and donated items as well, as did members of the congregation at Clifton Parish Church.

Eventually, two car loads of toys turned up at The Press' headquarters in Walmgate to be added to hundreds already donated to our annualToys & Tins Appeal, which aims to brighten up Christmas for York’s needy.

Mrs Watson said she was pleased that Riley had thought about other children rather than himself. "This is what Christmas should be about," she added.

Gifts will be given at Christmas to ten mothers and 23 children, aged between nine months and 12 years, at the refuge,run by the Independent Domestic Abuse Services (IDAS), as well as others who have lived there previously but now live in their own homes.

Staff thanked Riley and readers across York for backing the appeal, saying it will make a big difference to families over the festive period.

Items have also gone to the the Salvation Army, which provides food parcels and toys for people in need, and Major Andrew Dunkinson thanked readers, saying: "This has been a tremendous boost in ensuring that we are able once more to provide Christmas presents to children who may have had very little, if anything, this year.

"We have been overwhelmed by the generosity of readers of The Press. With the help of their generosity, we were able to meet the demands of those struggling to cope in our community, which has increased substantially.

"We have facilitated the delivery of toys to 563 needy children and 238 food hampers to local families in need.

"Thank you once again for your continued valued support and putting smiles on faces. Your generosity ensured no child referred to The Salvation Army went without a gift.

"I can assure you it is appreciated by us and by the hundreds of families and children that have benefitted."