THOUSANDS of toys have been distributed across the city to children who may otherwise not receive a gift on Christmas Day.

Each year city council staff kindly donate gifts and food which goes to some of the least well off families in the city.

This year City Building, the Emmie Smillie Charity Foundation and the Merchants’ House all asked if they could contribute to Lord Provost Eva Bolander’s toy and food bank appeals and bring a smile to the face of youngsters.

Their donations, which have been collected in just a month, have resulted in a bumper Christmas collection with more gifts being handed in than in any other year.

Lorry loads of toys and food have now been distributed to food banks, churches, charities and families who look after young relatives because their parents are not able to.

A wide range of gifts were handed in including drum kits and some of the must have toys this year.

Ms Bolander said: “The response has been fantastic I would like to thank everyone who has contributed.

“You will be bringing a smile to a child’s face this Christmas and helping people who have very little, experience some festive joy.

“My office has been overwhelmed by the kindness of staff who have handed in toys, food, toiletries and clothing.

“My thanks also to City Building, the Merchants’ House and the Emmie Smillie Charity Foundation for their donations.”

The foundation is a registered charity which was formed in 2016 to support organisations in the Glasgow area which provide services to people affected by cancer.