The Queensgate Shopping Centre partnered with children’s charity Barnardo’s for another year to ensure local children could enjoy a magical Christmas Day.

They say they were "thrilled" by the response after 1,397 gifts were donated. Last year, Queensgate saw more then 1,260 gifts donated.

The appeal was launched on November 18 when Queensgate invited shoppers to visit the purpose-built gift box located on the upper floor outside the 02 shop to donate gifts for children and teenagers.

Items included Lego, active/sports equipment, sensory toys, pretend/imaginary play items, art/craft sets, board/card games and puzzles, books, dolls and clothes and accessories.

Lynn McNish, strategic manager for children’s services at Barnardo’s Peterborough & Cambridgeshire, expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the ongoing generosity of the local community.

She said: “The meaningful impact of these gifts on the lives of numerous children and families facing challenges during the Christmas season. We can’t thank people enough.”

Katie Chapman, marketing and commercialisation manager at Queensgate Shopping Centre, said: "We felt privileged to  support Barnardo's this year.

"Christmas can be an exceptionally challenging for numerous individuals, and we aimed to contribute in any way we could to create a positive impact.

"We received a huge amount of gifts, which we are extremely grateful for.”