GAMES, dolls, building blocks, teddy bears, footballs and stacks of other children's gifts have flooded into the offices at the Evening Mail and The Bay radio this festive season.

In what can definitely be described as the season of goodwill, kind-hearted Evening Mail readers across the area have helped make the annual Toy Appeal exceed all expectations.

The deadline for giving gifts closed today at 2pm at the Bay offices.

Here, presents will be processed and given to a variety of charities who will then distribute them to children in need across south Cumbria and North Lancashire.

Bill Johnston is managing director of The Bay radio station.

He said: "Once again the Barrow community have come out in force to help support The Bay's annual toy appeal.

"We are quite sure that, this year, we have had a record number of toys donated across all age groups."

In previous years, residents have generously supported the appeal and this year was no different, as hoards of donated goods were brought in every day for children of all ages.

Mr Johnston added: "We will soon be working with our charity partners to ensure they will arrive with the right people in time for the big day."