For the final time, Harrow Observer readers reached deep into their pockets and hearts and swamped a hospital with Christmas gifts in support of our annual Toy Appeal.

Nurses at Northwick Park Hospital, in Watford Road, Harrow, dished out your donations to unwell young people on the children’s ward to add some festive sparkle during a tough time for them and their families, and it is all thanks to you.

The event, organised in partnership with the hospital and Harrow Council, was a big hit yet again with children, their families and medical staff.

Kyanne Primus-Cato, seven, has been in and out of hospital in her battle with leukaemia and was one of the many children who got a present while on the ward.

Grandmother Kathy Primus said: “It is really tough for her, obviously she is so young, and to be here at Christmas time it isn’t right but she’s an angel and it’s nice to get a pressie.

“The nurses here have been excellent.

“They’re lovely, so hard working and we feel lucky to have them.

“They’ve made her stay here much easier and we are hoping she will be home for Christmas.”

Staff at the hospital, in Watford Road, Harrow, were so overwhelmed with presents that many donations will be left over from the festive period, so nurses will have them on hand to give to children who have their birthday while being treated on the ward.

Play specialist nurse Louise O’Hallaran said: “This gesture from the community is so touching. “We’ve got so many donations we can’t believe it.

“It is such a shame that it will be the last one because it has meant so much to children, their parents and the staff here over the years.

“From the bottom of our hearts we all just want to say a huge thank you to everyone who donated.”

Deputy editor of the Harrow Observer, Mhairi Macfarlane, said: “Year after year we have been overwhelmed by the generosity of our readers as part of our Toy Appeal, and this year was no exception.

“Thank you to all of our readers for getting involved by donating a gift.

“We wish you a wonderful Christmas and New Year.”

Over the past month, readers have been flocking to Harrow’s libraries, which, with the help of the council, have acted as a drop off point for the presents, which council staff then drove to the hospital.

Councillor Sue Anderson (Labour), cabinet member for community, culture and resident engagement: “I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who donated a toy for the appeal.

“That we collected so many that they can be used for children’s birthdays over the coming year is heart-warming and shows the generosity of everyone involved.

“I am delighted that this has been such a success.”