Actors from TV’s EastEnders lent their support to the Newham Recorder Christmas Toy Appeal to make sure no child goes without presents over the holidays.

Newham Recorder: Colin Grainger, Perry Fenwick, Paula Blake and Ricky GroverColin Grainger, Perry Fenwick, Paula Blake and Ricky Grover (Image: Archant)

The campaign, now in it’s 38th year, is run by the Recorder and local charity Community Links, and is collecting gifts for disadvantaged children in the borough.

This week, Perry Fenwick, 52, who plays Billy Mitchell on the BBC drama, and Ricky Grover, 52, who plays Andrew Cotton, stopped by the Community Links offices in Barking Road to champion the appeal.

Perry, who was born in Canning Town, and Ricky – both of them patrons of Community Links’ work in Newham – sent the Recorder a statement of support for the appeal.

“We would like to thank everyone who has given so far, but we still need more toys,” they said.

“Please dig deep in the appeals last week and help to ensure that we can help all the kids this year.

“We know you can do it!”

Donations can still be made until December 23, the Tuesday before Christmas, at drop-off points across Newham.

Kevin Jenkins, founder of Community Links, said: “We need a real last acceleration to get across the finish line in the next week.

“We’re now two thirds of the way there. The next six or seven days are crucial.

“Please dig deep so no children go without this Christmas.”

As thousands of families in Newham feel the pinch this Christmas it’s vitally important this appeal is our biggest and best yet as we aim to collect a record number of toys at various locations across the borough.

Many local businesses, residents and organisations have held events of their own to raise money and collect toys, and have opened their hearts to give the most vulnerable and disadvantaged in society a great Christmas this year.

To donate to the appeal visit one of the drop-off points or contact Community Links by calling 020 7473 9685 or email kevin.jenkins@community-links.org.