Emergency department staff have been helping to spread festive cheer.

The team at Macclesfield District General Hospital A&E have been collecting toys in support of the Salvation Army's annual appeal.

Registered nurse Olivia Thorn couldn't be more pleased with the generosity shown by the community.

She said: "I forgot to count the number of toys but we had a lot!

"We filled a large hamper with all sorts, including a little ambulance toy in connection with our A&E!

"Hopefully this will make a huge difference to children who will wake up to hardly anything on Christmas Day.

"It makes an impact on their mood at Christmas and how they view Christmas for the future. It alters their emotional state and social state as kids tend to compare themselves to what others get at Christmas and if you have nothing you feel very low and outcasted."

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Poster for the Salvation Army's appeal (Credit: Salvation Army)

The Macclesfield Salvation Army's Christmas Present Appeal draws to a close this Friday, December 19.

Donations of toys and gifts can be made in person at the church and community centre on Roe Street.

Those unable to physical donate can make a financial contribution via the charity's Just Giving page here.