WE have doubled our total in the second week of the Community Links and Newham Recorder Christmas Toy Appeal for 2009. We have now amassed around 1,500 gifts, which is excellent. But it is less than last year. We need another 12,000 toys in just four we

WE have doubled our total in the second week of the Community Links and Newham Recorder Christmas Toy Appeal for 2009.

We have now amassed around 1,500 gifts, which is excellent. But it is less than last year.

We need another 12,000 toys in just four weeks to ensure no child is left out at this special time of year. For the 32nd year we have launched our appeal in conjunction with the group that is at the heart of local in our borough, care organisation Community Links.

This weekend, I will attempt the second part of my usual sponsored swim for the campaign and if you want to sponsor me, all donations will be greatfully accepted. What I raise will hopefully be matched by funding from the Newham Recorder's parent company Archant, through their scheme called Archant Gold.

Last week, Newham Chamber of Commerce signed up and agreed to stage a "bring a toy collection" at their monthly breakfast meeting on Thursday December 17.

And more news came in this week of a super fund-raising event from the bikers with heart, writes COLIN GRAINGER, Editor.

The BMF Better Biking Region 5 team are staging their annual toy run on Saturday December 12.

They leaving Strattone H-D, in Loxham Road, Chingford, at 12.30pm and another group of bikers will leave the King's Oak pub in High Beach, Essex, at 12pm.

Bikers are invited to come along with a toy or toys and enjoy the ride and make a child's Christmas special.

The bikers raise the toys for the Community Links and Newham Recorder Toy Appeal and take the toys to Links main headquarters in Barking Road, Canning Town.

With help from the BMF, Essex HOG, VSOC and riders who want to make a difference, the event is always very special.

Links are already planning for the party at which the joy you give will be given to the youngsters. Other gifts are delivered to homes in Newham.

Please do all you can to help. We really do need YOU to get behind this vital campaign RIGHT NOW.