ORGANISERS of the annual Giving Tree appeal began sorting through hundreds of donated gifts yesterday - and thanked the people of Darlington for their generosity.
More businesses, schools and community groups than ever before have taken part in this year's campaign to spread Christmas cheer among needy and vulnerable people in the town.
The initiative, run by the borough council's social services department and backed by The Northern Echo, encouraged shoppers to buy an extra gift and leave it at drop-off points across Darlington.
Organisers spent yesterday sorting out the mountain of gifts and donations, before preparing to send them out to recipients.
Councillor Eleanor Lister said: "It has been a wonderful response. The people of Darlington have once again proved their generosity in making the 2004 appeal the best ever."
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