Chester’s Toy Appeal 2021 has been launched by Chesterfield FC, with a huge amount of donations coming in of the first day of the campaign.

Sponsored by CRS Accident Repair, the initiative provides toys at Christmas for children’s charities and families who receive free school meals.

Spireites marketing manager Bridget Ball said: “There was a fantastic response when we introduced Chester’s Toy Appeal last year, with many local businesses and individuals kindly donating toys.

“We are looking to provide even more toys this year for children who would otherwise go without at Christmas.

“Every child should have a present to open on Christmas Day and we are doing all we can to put smiles on faces.”

The donation of unwrapped new toys for children aged 0-18 years is requested, and the appeal has got off to a flying start, with over £3,000 worth of toy donations pledged by the end of the first day.

Bridget added: “I am overwhelmed with the response in such a short space of time.

“It shows just how caring people are in the local community and how the club and the Community Trust can make a real difference.”

The toys should be taken to Chester’s Den play centre at the Technique Stadium, from 10am to 4pm, Monday to Saturday (except on a matchday).

The club has also launched other initiatives recently to support local people and businesses in the area. Find out more at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/2021/11/chesterfield-fc-supports-businesses-and-residents-with-latest-initiatives/

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.