Staff at the University of Worcester donated hundreds of toys for children living in women’s refuges over Christmas.

The annual campaign, organised by staff, saw a wide range of games, toys and gifts for all ages handed over to West Mercia Women’s Aid.

Jo Midgley, Worcestershire County Manager for West Mercia Women’s Aid, said: “It’s absolutely fantastic.  It means the world because we can give presents to children over Christmas and put toys in the play room and it makes for a happier Christmas all round.”

West Mercia Women’s Aid distributed the toys to its two refuges in Worcestershire, which provide a safe place of shelter for women and children who have experienced domestic abuse.

Esther Dobson, Research and Knowledge Exchange Facilitator in the University’s College of Arts, Humanities and Education, who was in charge of this year’s campaign, said: “This is the sixth year we have been running the Christmas present collection and it is always such a joy to be part of. 

"Staff have, as always, been very generous in their contributions, which we hope will really make a difference to those in local refuges.”

Anyone who would like to donate to West Mercia Women’s Aid can log on to westmerciawomensaid.org.