FUNDRAISERS are calling on all of Didcot to come together to back what could be the ‘biggest ever’ festive present collection.

The annual Sleigh2Give campaign has been launched and is aiming to collect thousands of gifts to hand out to children and young people this Christmas.

This year's appeal has already been boosted by more than £5,600 worth of toys donated by charity shop Changing Lives - double what they have previously been able to give.

Organiser Andy Baker said every donation would help to brighten up a youngster’s life as they receive treatment in the Oxford Children's Hospital over the festive period.

He added: "We're hoping it's going to be the biggest year yet. It's a chance for the whole town to come together and help people out at Christmas.

"This year we're particularly focussing on ensuring there are enough presents for teenagers and siblings of ill children because they have not been as well served in recent years."

This will be the fourth year the appeal has been run with volunteers hoping to better last year’s total of 3,000 gifts.

Mr Baker, who has received various awards for his determined fundraising, has had a brain injury since birth - something which continues to make his day-to-day life difficult.

But he said he is still as determined as ever to spread some seasonal goodwill, particularly because he has been in the same position as many of the children his campaign will be helping.

The 30-year-old added: "It's always very emotional and special to see the reaction of the children.

"Last year a mum told us we made her baby smile for the first time that day.

"The Children's Hospital is a fantastic facility that we are lucky to have.

"This is about providing a little bit extra to brighten up their days during the toughest of times."

Collection points have been set up across Didcot and in Oxford for people wishing to leave gifts to be given out at the children’s hospital on December 16.

Special donation days will be held at Sainsbury's Didcot on December 8 and Tesco Didcot from November 23 -25 - giving people a chance to donate to the appeal.

Go Green Taxis are sponsoring the campaign and will be helping to transport the presents.

See play2give.org.uk/sleigh2give-2018