​Juggling balls have been donated to the Evening Post Christmas Toy Appeal by Bristol circus school Circomedia.

Readers are urged to bring children’s new or nearly new toys or money to our Temple Way offices, where staff will collect them for distribution to youngsters who are likely to get few gifts this year.

We are asking you all to show your generosity in these hard financial times by buying an extra toy, book, teddy, or other children’s gift this year to help with the appeal. The gifts can be for youngsters up to the age of 16.

Rather than throwing things away, you can give baby toys, educational books and games to the cause. People can also donate money to help the children.

The appeal is running alongside the Lord Mayor’s Children Appeal, which raises funds for the families of underprivileged youngsters in the area.

Up to 1,600 families within the city will get two £15 vouchers – one for food and one for clothes or toys, which can be spent at Asda, Co-op branches, and at Debenhams.

Circomedia spokesman William Pritchard said: “Circomedia is delighted to support the Evening Post Christmas Toy Appeal. With the workshops and sessions that we do for children and young people, we can see the enjoyment and pleasure that circus skills can bring.

“We have worked with some children from difficult backgrounds with challenging behaviour and circus skills manage to engage them and help them in other areas of their lives. Circus skills, as well as being great fun, are a great way for people of all ages to engage in physical activity.”

Last year our readers donated about 250 toys, which included dozens of cuddly toys, a bike, a guitar, and much more.

Cheques for the appeal should be made out to the Lord Mayor’s Children Appeal and sent c/o the Lord Mayor at the Mansion House, Clifton Down, Bristol BS8 3LJ.

Gifts can be delivered to the Evening Post reception in Temple Way, or The Entertainer toy and gift shop in Cabot Circus.