STAFF on the children's wards at Huddersfield Royal Infirmary are appealing for toys or raffle prizes to give young patients a happy Christmas.

In previous years staff have staged a stall in the hospital entrance to raise funds for children's Christmas presents.

But because of new rulings banning stalls in the hospital foyer, staff cannot raise funds this way now.

Instead, they are aiming to hold a raffle to generate cash.

Alternatively, they would like toys they could give direct to children on Christmas Day.

Miss Kirsty Gardner, who is play specialist on the Bramble children's ward, said: "We used to raise between £200 and £300 on the stall, which was our main fundraiser.

"But we are stuck this year."

People can drop off donations at the reception at the Infirmary or can get in touch with Miss Gardner at the ward.

The phone number is 01484 342482.