There's still time to become a Secret Santa to our city's children in need

This weekend is the last chance for Echo readers to become 'Secret Santas' for thousands of needy children this Christmas.

- by Tom Patterson

Hope 4 Kidz founder Viv Watts with some of the toys for our Christmas appeal.

The Echo's annual Christmas Toy Appeal - in partnership with Wearside charity Hope 4 Kidz - is aiming to provide youngsters in the city with a present they would otherwise not get on the big day.

Your gifts are already stacking up - with about 300 already handed out to local charities - after we asked readers to buy just one more Christmas gift while out shopping and leave them at one of the drop-off points all over the city.

The last pickup day for the toys is Monday, and they will then be distributed by Hope 4 Kidz to charities and organisations which support children - youngsters living with long-term illness, disabilities and problems such as poverty and abuse.