EASTENDERS star Dean Gaffney has given toys to a Christmas appeal, while a 15-year-old has been volunteering to sort donations.

The 37-year-old soap star donated several toys to Smart Storage’s Christmas toy appeal, with one young resident working hard to sort through the gifts as part of his Duke of Edinburgh award.

Jake Farnworth is working towards his bronze awards and is also collecting toys from businesses around Warrington.

The 15-year-old said: “Part of my Duke of Edinburgh award is to volunteer with some charitable work and after seeing the appeal in the paper and the fantastic charities that the appeal supports I immediately wanted to help in order to help local children who need it – especially at Christmas.

“The Warrington Guardian and Smart Storage’s toy appeal has helped me realise how lucky I am.”

The appeal asks residents to donate new presents for youngster up to the age of 16 to be donated unwrapped – gifts will support the Children’s Adventure Farm Trust, JUMP and NSPCC Warrington.

Appeal organiser Paul Whittaker said: “As the success of the appeal grows it’s incredible to see the whole community that have been getting involved with the appeal “Youngsters like Jake involving themselves is truly fantastic – we are also delighted by the response of local schools who have also been making collections for this year’s appeal.

“On behalf of everyone at Smart Storage we are thankful of the Guardian reader’s immense response to our appeal.

“However, we need more so when you are out buying presents and gifts for loved ones spare a thought for the vulnerable and needy children of Warrington.”

Toys can be dropped off at Smart Storage on Lythgoes Lane, the Warrington Guardian offices on Bridge Street or the Halliwell Jones Stadium.

For more information email paul.whittaker@smart-storage.co.uk.