A Christmas toy appeal has generated more than 500 presents for children across Glasgow.

Anas Sarwar, Glasgow Labour MSP organised the annual Glasgow Cares toybank appeal again to give presents to children who otherwise might not receive anything.

The toys will be distributed to children identified by Glasgow Women’s Aid and Children 1st.

The MSP launched his annual appeal earlier this month and asked for toys and gift vouchers suitable for children of all ages.

He said he was delighted with the response once again as people and businesses stepped up to help out.

Mr Sarwar said: “We have smashed our target for the toybank appeal.

“Thanks to the generosity and kindness of so many, we will be supporting more than 500 children across Glasgow.

“Thank you to everyone who donated.”

Many will go to children spending Christmas in a refuge with their mother who have escaped domestic violence.

Susan Jack, training and development worker at Glasgow Women’s Aid, said: “Christmas can be a very difficult time of the year and this is particularly true for families in refuge or living with domestic abuse.

“Every year we are overwhelmed by the generosity of people that donate toys and presents to Glasgow Women’s Aid. We know that these donations make a big difference to families.”

Julie Richardson, service manager with Children 1st, said: “At Children 1st we work alongside many families who feel stressed and worried by the additional financial burden and sense of ‘difference’ Christmas can bring.