Home-Start East Lothian has launched its Christmas toy appeal to provide toys for families in need this festive period.

The group has acted as the hub for the appeal - which seeks to collect new, unused toys which can be collected by parents or carers who are struggling to afford toys this Christmas - for the past eight years.

It is seeking donations for kids aged up to 16.

Suggested gifts for children aged 0-3 include dolls, teddy bears, cot mobiles, baby toys, CDs of suitable music and nursery rhymes and puzzles. For kids aged 3-5, suggestions include action figures, toy cars, DVDs, CDs, colouring sets, pencils/crayons, books and puzzles.

For youngsters aged 5-9, suggestions include educational games and toys, stationary, CDs and family friendly DVDs.

Gift suggested for 9-12s include games, toys, stationary, CDs, DVDs, books, and gift cards.

While for 13-16 year olds, the organisation is seeking for CDs, DVDs, books, games, make-up, fragrance sets and gift cards.

A spokesperson for Home-Start East Lothian said: “This is our eighth year hosting the hub, a place for new gifts to be donated, where those working with families who are struggling within East Lothian can come and collect on their behalf.

“Last year we saw gifts going out to over 730 children here in East Lothian.

“We have collection points at Tesco Extra in Musselburgh, the Fraser Centre in Tranent, Tranent Bowling Club, Crossfit in Haddington and GSB offices across East Lothian.

“Once again thank you to all those who support this amazing collaborative project.”

Tranent Bowling Club is supporting the appeal with donations able to be dropped off at the club on December 4-6, 7-8pm.

Home-Start East Lothian is voluntary organisation committed to promoting the welfare of families with at least one child under five years of age.