THE CHILDREN'S Book and Toy Bank has launched its Christmas Appeal for 2020.

And for the first time, it's also asking readers to donate toys to its eighth annual collection.

The items can be donated at a number of participating stores, where they will then be collected and delivered to local charities will give them to children for Christmas.

Due to covid-19 only new books and toys bought at the participating shops will be accepted this year.

The appeal runs from November 7 to December 6.

Readers can drop off donations at: The New Bookshop, Cockermouth, Bookends, Keswick and Carlisle branches, Hedgehog Bookshop, Penrith, The Toy Shop, Cockermouth and Toymaster, Penrith - there is also help from Hills Books, Workington and Derwent Pencils, Workington.

The charities set to benefit are North Lakes Food Bank, Salvation Army Food Bank, Carlisle Salvation Army Food Bank, Penrith, Jigsaw Children’s Hospice, Carlisle

For information about the appeal ring Chris Bower on 01900 827811 or email cchrisbower@icloud.com