Disadvantaged children can look forward to a brighter Christmas Day tomorrow thanks to a local newspaper’s campaign to get readers to donate presents.

Around 1,500 presents ranging from soft toys to children’s bikes flooded in to the Stirling Observer after it launched its Give A Gift Appeal in conjunction with a local taxi firm.

The gifts have since been distributed to disadvantaged children and young people in council care, to the Stirling Royal Infirmary’s children’s ward, and to other local welfare organisations.

One family with several young children will even be receiving a new bicycle.

Stirling Observer editor Alan Rennie said: “We had plenty of faith that there would be a good response. However, I don’t think anyone could have imagined just how good.

“One of the most heartening aspects has been that the appeal has been able to reach children and young people who are coping with a variety of difficulties and through a range of locally-based charities and organisations.

“A heartfelt thanks goes out to all our readers and anyone who contributed. Every last gift is appreciated not just by a child but by everyone at the Stirling Observer.

“We hope that knowing a child will be smiling when they open your gift on Christmas morning will put a smile on your own face.”

The campaign was originally launched on 19 November and since then the paper’s staff have been filling mailbags, bin bags and taxis full of presents.

As well as individual gifts for children and young people, organisations such as Stirling Womens’ Aid received some bikes which will be kept for use at their local refuge.