AN appeal for Christmas gifts for underprivileged children has received a high level of support, organisers have said.

Co-operative Travel, in Bondgate, Darlington, is on the lookout for new or as-new toys and gifts as part of its Santa’s Suitcase appeal.

Donations can be left at the store for another week, after which they will be given out to needy youngsters in the area.

A spokeswoman for the store said an “absolutely enormous” number of donations had already been received.

This campaign is separate from the Salvation Army appeal.