Hundreds of toys were collected from the Evening Post offices yesterday to be delivered to underprivileged children this Christmas.

This year's Evening Post Toy Appeal has been one of the most successful ever, with our generous readers donating hundreds of toys for children of all ages, despite the tough financial climate.

Our appeal ran alongside the Lord Mayor's Children Appeal, which raises funds for the families of underprivileged youngsters in the area.

Yesterday, Bruce Simmonds, chairman of the appeal, was overwhelmed with the support as he loaded the gifts into his van.

Supporters of the appeal have included Bristol City Football Club, Bristol Rugby Club, MPs, Bristol Zoo Gardens, Cabot Circus and The Entertainer gift shop, the Bristol Pitbulls ice hockey team, circus school Circomedia, dog rehoming charity Dogs Friends and X Factor finalist Marisa Billitteri.

Also getting behind the appeal have been Eastenders stars Joe Swash and Kara Tointon, the cast of the Old Vic pantomime, TV presenter Sherrie Eugene and celebrity chef Martin Blunos. 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 Debenhams.

Those who do not get the vouchers will receive a gift generously donated by our readers.