Wolves ace Dave Edwards gives Star gift appeal his backing

The Pontesbury-born footballer, who part owns the Little Rascals soft play centre in Shrewsbury, has donated vouchers for free meals and play sessions for youngsters to the appeal.

The Christmas Gift Appeal, which was launched last month by the Shropshire Star and our partners at Storage King, aims to bring smiles to hundreds of people who might otherwise be having a difficult time at Christmas.

We are seeking donations of toys, games and gifts for youngsters, as well as presents for vulnerable older people.

• Donations can be handed in to the Shropshire Star head office in Telford, and Storage King’s base in Archers Way, Battlefield, Shrewsbury.

• They can also be handed in to the Shropshire Star office at Bellstone, Shrewsbury.

Welsh international Mr Edwards, who previously played for Shrewsbury Town, stepped in to help after hearing about the campaign.

Little Rascals manager Katie Wootton said: "Dave heard about the appeal and he is always keen to support local charities.

"The donation is four vouchers, each for a family of four, to enjoy a free meal and play session at the centre."

Shropshire Star editor Martin Wright urged readers to donate generously to the appeal, saying it would make a real difference to hundreds of people, young and old, who have been experiencing difficulties of some kind or another.

The gifts donated will be shared between five charities, including The Harry Johnson Trust, which supports children with cancer, Hope House Children's Hospice in Oswestry, and Telford & Wrekin Young Carers. Gifts will also be distributed to people who use the Age UK day centres across the county, as well as Home-Start Telford & Wrekin, which supports children in families experiencing difficulties.

Mr Wright said: "For most of us, Christmas is a wonderful time of year, but for some people it can also be a difficult and lonely period.

"Please give generously to this year's gift appeal and bring a bit of Christmas cheer to the youngsters and older people who are less fortunate than we are."

The gifts will be handed over at a special VIP event at Storage King in December and managing director Sarah Hopkins said: "Time is moving on and we would like anyone who would like to donate to the appeal to get in touch."

Wolves midfielder Dave Edwards