Chester’s Christmas Toy Appeal has been launched by Chesterfield FC Community Trust to spread some festive cheer.

People are encouraged to buy an extra toy when they are doing their Christmas shopping and donate it to the appeal. The toys will then be distributed to children in need in North Derbyshire.

Bridget Ball, Chesterfield FC’s marketing manager, said: “It has been a very difficult year for everyone, financially and emotionally, so we want to bring everybody together to support those in need.

“Our aim is to try and take some pressure off parents and carers who may be struggling at this time of year. No child should wake up on Christmas Day morning without a present to unwrap.”

“Individuals and businesses can help by making donations. Cosmetic Repair Solutions have sponsored the appeal and I would like to thank them for their valued support.”

Unwrapped toys for children aged 0-18 years can be dropped off at Chester’s Den in the HUB at the Technique Stadium, opposite side to main entrance, from Monday to Friday (8am to 7pm) until December 11.

The Christmas Toy Appeal is one of a number of initiatives being carried out recently by the Chesterfield FC Community Trust. Last month, the club visited a number of local schools to educate pupils on Black History Month. It also helped provide school children with free school meals during the half-term holidays, with a number of families suffering financial difficulties due to the covid-19 outbreak.

Chesterfield Football Club supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.