THE toys have been coming in thick and fast.

The Hampshire Chronicle’s annual toy appeal has reached the half-way stage and it is hoped that it can even beat last year’s figures.

The appeal will support local charities Home-Start, Basics Bank and Friends of the Family, who help families through difficult times.

It collects new toys for a special Santa delivery to youngsters, who may otherwise have little or nothing under the Christmas tree.

The appeal is made possible by the generosity of Waterstone’s bookshop in The Brooks Centre who have agreed to act as the collection point.

A spokeswoman for The Brooks said: “It is going so well, I think compared to last year we seem to have a stronger start which is really nice.”

If you would like to donate a gift for a child, please take it, unwrapped, to Waterstone’s on the second floor in The Brooks.

Only brand new toys are wanted and must be suitable for boys and girls aged from toddlers to 13-years-old.

All donations will be divided between the three chosen charities in time for Christmas.

Closing date for all donations is Thursday, December 15.

That will give time for the presents to be wrapped and delivered in time for Christmas Day.