The News & Star Toy Appeal really does make a huge difference to thousands of people's lives – as social workers and volunteers know.

Charities that work with families in distress and carers see just how much the presents donated to the Toy Appeal mean to families when they are handed over.

Pam Hutton, chief officer of East Cumbria Family Support, said knowing the presents were coming made a big difference to parents.

She said: “The families that we have taken the toys out to have been very appreciative. Families do their best to get their children what they want but it's all the bits and pieces they want with it.

“It's a very stressful time Christmas and trying to live up to your children's expectations is hard and it puts pressure on.

“I think it makes a huge difference just them knowing those toys were going to come so it just does relieve the pressure.

“The toys that have been given are absolutely fantastic. The quality of them and everything have been absolutely spot on. It's very, very kind of people to do that and think about other people. It's the true spirit of Christmas.”

Eden Young Carers gave out presents to the young carers at their annual Christmas party.

Jess Eland, of the group, said: “Some of the young carers live in difficult circumstances with great financial strains. Some of the young cares would not get any presents if it wasn’t for the Mission Christmas appeal.

“A huge thank you to all those who support the appeal, it is much appreciated and great to see so many smiles on the young carers faces.”

One young carer said the toy appeal present was the best ever.

Richard Farnworth is a family support worker at Howgill Family Centre in Cleator Moor, which gave out presents to more than 50 children this year.

He said: “Every year we collect quite a huge quantity of toys. We have had lots. We give toys out to a whole range of families with a whole range of needs.

“I think it's hugely significant, really important and very, very, very much appreciated by the families – they really are. I think it's a really hard time of year. It's a very expensive time of year, there's lots of pressure on parents.”