Hundreds of children across Preston and Lancashire had a better Christmas thanks to Blog Preston readers and kind-hearted businesses across the city.

More than 400 presents were collected for vulnerable children and distributed by Barnardo’s.

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Presents donated included educational toys, games, books, teddies, scooters and gifts for teenagers included gift vouchers, hair straighteners.

It’s the highest amount of presents donated since the annual appeal began.

Assistant director for Barnardo’s Children’s Services in Lancashire Paul Wilcox said: “It’s wonderful to see the business community in Lancashire coming together to support disadvantaged children in this way and I know that every single one of these thoughtful presents will be so gratefully received.

“We are extremely thankful to Cotton Court for all they continue to do to support the work of Barnardo’s in Lancashire – their efforts really do make a difference to the lives of vulnerable children in this area.”

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The presents were donated at the Cotton Court business centre in Church Street and at a number of venues across the city.

Owner of Cotton Court Rob Binns said: “We are extremely grateful to everyone that has donated to this year’s gift appeal, and to Blog Preston for helping to spread the word, making it our most successful campaign yet. The thought of a child being without a gift on Christmas Day morning is heart wrenching, but what’s great about this appeal is that all of the presents donated will go to put a smile on the faces of children in this local area who are supported by Barnardo’s.”