Active Northumberland Leisure Centres are nominated drop off points for Metro Radio’s Mission Christmas appeal which is collecting presents for disadvantaged children and young people across the north-east. 
 

Local residents are being encouraged to spread a bit of festive joy by donating gifts suitable for ages 0-18 which will be donated to some of the region’s most deprived families. 
 

The gifts need to be new and unwrapped as they will be wrapped and allocated according to the appropriate age of the children. 
 

Items such as new toys, books, clothing, gift vouchers, confectionery and toiletry gift sets are most welcome. 
 

Across the north-east an estimated 47,000 children are living in poverty and will be waking up on Christmas morning to an empty space beneath the tree. The Metro Radio campaign aims to ensure that every child will get at least one present on Christmas morning. 
 

Mark Warnes, Chief Executive of Active Northumberland said: 

“Christmas is a magical time for many families, but for others in poverty, it is heart-breaking.  
“I know times are hard for a lot of us right now, but if you are able to donate to this cause and add one more toy to the list when buying gifts for your loved ones, please do.  Any support you can give the appeal would be really appreciated. Together we can spread a little cheer for those who need it most this Christmas." 
 

The collection at the leisure centres will run from 13th November until 7th December. 

The centres that are designated drop-off points are: 

Ashington Leisure Centre 
Blyth Sports Centre 
Concordia Leisure Centre, Cramlington 
Morpeth Sports & Leisure Centre 
Ponteland Leisure Centre 
Prudhoe Waterworld 
Wentworth Sports Centre, Hexham 
Willowburn Sports and Leisure Centre, Alnwick 
Berwick Sports and Leisure Centre is also taking part on behalf of Border Radio’s Mission Christmas appeal.