The Newham Recorder Christmas Toy Appeal has smashed its target in spectacular style – and won royal seal of approval at the same time.

The Archant London title has run the appeal for the past 29 years in conjunction with care group Community Links.

Just before Christmas it became truly by royal appointment when staff at Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle called to say they had heard about the campaign and wanted to take part.

Appeal co-ordinator Kevin Jenkins – who has the OBE for services to the community – said: “I am not sure how The Queen and the royal households found out about the campaign but it was a brilliant surprise to receive a phone call asking me to go to Windsor and Buckingham Palace to collect toys.

“The staff at both royal households collected them for the appeal and the children of Newham are very grateful.”

The appeal beat its target of 12,500 toys – the highest total ever needed.

Recorder editor Colin Grainger, who has co-ordinated the toy appeal for 29 years, said: “The appeal is very close to my heart and this year we had to get 12,500 new toys to ensure no deprived children were left out.

“Once again we have beaten this total, which is a truly magnificent achievement for the paper, our readers and Community Links.”

Archant London managing director Enzo Testa said: “This year’s success has exceeded all our expectations and has taken it to another level of achievement. I think it clearly demonstrates the opportunity we have to make things happen in our communities.”