Ivanhoe School says it has been 'overwhelmed' with the response to its Leicestershire Charity Toys on the Table Christmas appeal.

This charity has been giving gifts for over 40 years to children who would otherwise not receive anything for Christmas.

The school says that the 'spectacular' amount of toys and gifts donated will make a huge difference to the lives of young people in Leicestershire.

 The charity appeal was suggested by a member of support staff, Mrs Dawn Deacon, who has been a long-term supporter of Toys on the Table, but realised there was no local collection point in the Ashby area.

Mrs Deacon said: 'I've supported this charity for many years. 

"I have two sons who are so lucky with the gifts they receive from family and friends, and it breaks my heart to think there may be children who receive nothing. 

"That's why our family buys gifts throughout the year for this collection.

"We've been absolutely overwhelmed with the donations from our students and staff and not forgetting the Ashby Community for their support.

 "Our student ambassadors did a great job of spreading the word to local businesses as they set out on foot round town to deliver leaflets and engage with the community. 

"It was fantastic to see one of our local football teams, Marlborough Rovers - who many of our students play for - donating gifts instead of doing Secret Santa this year. 

"One of our Year 10 students, Thalia, has even been spending her pocket money on gifts and has asked for gifts to donate on her own Christmas list this year. "

Ivanhoe School Headteacher Mrs Alison Allford said:  "We know times are tough for families at the moment, and we had no idea how many donations we would get when the appeal was launched. 

"However, I don't think there is a bigger demonstration of how all of our students embrace the 'be kind' element of our Ivanhoe Way School code than this." 

The school hopes to continue collecting for the local area next year.