AN appeal for gifts for needy Wyre Forest children has set a new record.

Kind-hearted shoppers donated more than 500 gifts to Wyre Forest Business Club's stall in Kidderminster's Swan Centre.

And hundreds more were dropped into the offices of the Shuttle/Times and News which jointly organises the annual appeal for presents.

Sandra Wadhams, a business club committee member, said: "We are absolutely delighted with the response and would like to thank everyone who has supported us, including staff at the management office of the Swan Centre which has also been swamped with gifts. Sandra Wadhams with some of the gifts which will soon making their way to needy children.

"This year some shoppers gave us cash as well so that we could buy toys which children had asked for.

"We are looking forward to a similar success next year."

The scheme involves shoppers taking tags printed with the names and ages of needy children. Then they buy a suitable gift and return it.

The presents, thought to be valued at more than £3,000, will be delivered by Kidderminster's Hansel & Gretel Family Support Unit in time for Christmas.