Today we launch our annual Christmas appeal, calling on readers to once again show their generosity and help good causes in the Hounslow borough.

Last year, our offices were flooded with gifts from big-hearted residents keen to spread a little festive cheer among our four chosen charities.

Times may be hard this year but that means the good causes we support need your help more than ever.

Their wish-list includes:

Toys for children and babies at West Middlesex and Kingston hospitals, and for sick youngsters at Hampton's Shooting Star Hospice. Don't forget presents for the older children, who often miss out, like smellies, books and CDs.

Sherry, chocolates and toiletries for ex-servicemen and women at the Royal Star and Garter Homes in Richmond.

Donna-Marie Henry, matron for the children’s unit at West Mid, said: "We are very grateful to Chronicle readers for their generosity. No one wants to be in hospital over the Christmas period and we try our best to make it a happy time for any children who are here.

"As well as presents for the children at Christmas we always try to give children a small present if they are in the hospital for their birthday or have had an operation or procedure."

To donate, call into our offices at 93 Staines Road, Hounslow, from 9am-5pm Monday to Friday. You can also drop off gifts at Kingston Tourist Information centre, Market House, Market Place, Kingston, from 10am-5pm Monday to Saturday, or Richmond Civic Centre, York Street, Twickenham, from 9.30am-5pm. The deadline for donations is Wednesday December 16.

For health reasons we cannot accept any soft toys. All children's gifts should have CE on the label and please DO NOT wrap any of your donations as they need to be checked for suitability. Call 020 8572 1816 for more information.