AN ANNUAL appeal to put a smile on a child's face at Christmas has opened.

Staff at Access Self Storage have nominated the Royal Berkshire Hospital as the beneficiary for this year's campaign.

More than 4,500 donations have been collected over the last seven years, with last year's appeal resulting in 1,600 presents being donated.

June Leatham, fundraising manager of The Royal Berkshire Charity, said: “What you do for us is hugely appreciated and even the smallest donation helps to make a big difference.

"We are thrilled to be working with the Access Self Storage Reading again this year.

"With the support of our community and businesses, like Access Self Storage we can help change the lives of thousands of people and enhance patient care throughout the Trust supporting the NHS in what they do.”

All donations may be left at the reception of Access Self Storage's Reading offices, where they will be stored safely until they are delivered to the Royal Berkshire Hospital on December 14, in time for Christmas.

A giant storage unit has been donated to receive any contributions from now until the deadline.

James Byrne, manager of the Reading branch, said: “We are excited to start this year’s campaign and get as many donations for the Royal Berks Hospital Charity as we can.

"Having worked closely together for a number of years, it is such a great charity to support and we urge the community and businesses to contribute in any way they can.

"We welcome gifts big and small. It is heartwarming to see people thinking of others they don’t even know and putting a smile on the face of a stranger at Christmas. It is what this campaign is all about.”

Generous residents can submit new toys, books, games and even handmade goods to the appeal.

In the seven years that the campaign has been running, more that 4,500 gifts have been collected for charities all across the UK.