THE Salvation Army launched its Christmas appeal in the North-East with a festive concert.

The event at Lumley Castle, Chester-le-Street, featured the Northern English Singers, Riverside Brass and Summer School Timbrelists.

Gifts and toys have been requested by the charity, to give to needy families.

Appeal co-ordinator Geoff Platt said: "Letters are arriving daily telling of how many young families are dreading Christmas, and will be struggling to make ends meet."

Donations can be left at the MetroCentre tableau, any Co-op or Northern Rock branch and Jennings and Patterson Ford showrooms.