THERE is still time to make a difference to a local child's life this Christmas.

There are still two weeks to go before poverty relief charity Pembrokeshire Action To Combat Hardship (PATCH) begins sorting through donations to this year's Christmas Toy Appeal.

Last year, the charity gave gifts to more than 600 Pembrokeshire children, whose families would otherwise have struggled to afford such a luxury.

"Many would not have received any gifts at all if it wasn't for the incredible generosity of the people of Pembrokeshire," said PATCH co-ordinator Tracy Olin.

As well as toys, gifts, books, arts and crafts, the charity is also appealing for sweets and chocolates, and - just as important - wrapping paper, sticky tape, strong large bags (bin bag size) and large cardboard boxes.

And for those looking for a way to spread the festive cheer throughout the year, people can also make a monthly donation by standing order, to help the charity as it provides food, clothing and other essentials to families in financial difficulty.

PATCH will be at Tesco, Milford Haven, this Saturday (November 28) from 10am to 4pm, accompanied by local Scouts, collecting toys, food and money for the appeal by selling raffle tickets.

Prizes include a 5ft light-up Rudolph the Reindeer, shopping vouchers and art work by Dorian Spencer Davies.

This is the charity's sixth annual toy appeal, which was launched at the Bridge Innovation Centre in Pembroke Dock last month.

Unlike previous years, the 2015 appeal has a theme, with PATCH asking for toys that encourage imagination and outdoor play.

“We want you to help activate the imagination of children in Pembrokeshire who without your support would have a miserable Christmas,” said Tracy.

She explained that this year will be tougher than ever for the charity.

“For the first year ever we have no funds in our bank to start the toy appeal off, so we’re relying on donations 100 per cent."