NOW THAT the final presents have been wrapped and the last stockings prepped ahead of the big day, another roaringly successful Toys and Teens appeal can be looked back on.

Thanks to thousands of generous Reading residents, 1,350 children from 600 less economically able local families will wake up to a mound of presents on Christmas morning.

In order to make this happen charity Reading Family Aid constructed an operation of enormous proportions, setting up 31 public donation points across the town and collecting gifts from October 19 to December 4.

Last week the 10,000-plus toys donated were brought to St Luke's Parish Hall on Erleigh Road where volunteers, armed with wish lists compiled by social workers, loaded sacks with an assortment of treats.

Amongst them was Mayor Rose Williams.

She said: "I didn't know much about what you actually did and where you did the sorting. It's quite amazing to come in and see how much good stuff has been donated. Brand new stock and lovely new books and puzzles for all ages.

"It's wonderful people have been so generous with their money and their time. It's a really slick operation. I'm really amazed.

"I mentioned the phrase 'Team Reading' to a group I visited this morning. There is the feeling when times are tough you are grateful for what you have, but also more aware of people who don't have what you have been blessed with, so you are more inclined to share."

With the presents sorted, a team of van drivers assumed the role of Father Christmas and delivered the sacks to addresses across the town.

Parents were then able to wrap and address them to their children.

Reading Family Aid Chair, Wendy Howell, said: “We were absolutely overwhelmed by the generosity of the people of Reading this year.

"Thanks to the support of each and every individual, company, school, faith and social group who donated to the Toys and Teens appeal we were able to provide over 1300 local children with quality gifts in time for Christmas.

"We are also hugely thankful for the support of our sponsors, to all of the many donation points for taking in the toy donations, and to the many many volunteers, whose help during the toy packing week was absolutely essential. We wish everyone a very Happy Christmas.”

Reading Family Aid works throughout the year providing outings for children and families who otherwise could not afford to go.

To find out how you can help, go to www.readingfamilyaid.org