YOUNGSTERS on a children's ward have being putting toys to the test following a £500 donation from the MFI store, in Stockton.

The University Hospital of Hartlepool was presented with vouchers to spend at Toys R Us and the Early Learning Centre.

Among items bought by staff were computer games, a dolls' house, jigsaw puzzles, baths and baby chairs.

Ward manager Sister Leslie Pearson showed the toys to children and Lee Smurthwaite, senior wood manufacturing manager for MFI, last week.

Mr Smurthwaite said: "Our company continually supports a range of worthy causes throughout the North-East and we are delighted to enhance the excellent service that local health workers already provide.

"It is always a privilege to see the first-hand impact of our donations and I hope children continue to benefit from these new toys and equipment."