THE chance to help children in need this Christmas hasn't wrapped up yet.

There is still time to join in the Big Wrap gift appeal that aims to make sure every child in the Vale is remembered this Christmas.

The appeal,a partnership between the Vale Children and Young People's Services and local charities, provides support for over 500 children and young people who might otherwise receive little or nothing for Christmas.

This week saw volunteers organised by Coastlands Family Church packing food hampers and presents for hundreds of disadvantaged children. They were joined by AM Jane Hutt, a keen supporter of the appeal.

Donations of new and unwrapped toys and gifts, as well as selection boxes and sweets, can be dropped at the collection point in the reception area of the Civic Offices on Holton Road, Barry.

Jane Hutt said: "It isn't too late to donate or volunteer. Just contact 07725773746 or email bigwrap@yahoo.co.uk”

Photo shows Jane Hutt AM with Susan Lloyd-Selby -coordinator of the Big Wrap.

THE Big Wrap Christmas gift appeal, launched last week, works in partnership with the Vale Children and Young People's Services and local charities to provide support for over 500 children and young people who might otherwise receive little or nothing for Christmas.

"We are delighted to be running the initiative again this year, in partnership with local churches and the Vale Foodbank," said Susan Lloyd-Selby, Big Wrap co-ordinator.

"Last year our volunteers wrapped and delivered presents to 145 children in the Vale and provided hampers to 50 young people. In the current economic climate we are anticipating even more demand this year, so we hope people will support us".

Local people can donate toys and gifts (new and unwrapped), as well as selection boxes and sweets at the collection point in the reception area of the Civic Offices in Holton Road, Barry.

The collection point is open until Friday, December 7, and donations can also be taken to Coastlands Family Church, Tennyson Road, Barry (Mondays 2-3pm and Thursdays 4.30-6pm).

Further information from Susan Lloyd-Selby by email at slloydselby@yahoo.com or telephone 01446 410782.