STAFF and players at Johnstone Burgh are giving their support to an appeal which aims to make sure people in need don’t miss out on presents this Christmas.

The football club will be using it’s Keanie Park ground as a drop-off point for the Night Before Christmas Campaign (NB4CC).

People are urged to donate festive gifts that will then be distributed to those who are struggling to make ends meet.

Kyle Reid, Burgh’s development manager, told The Gazette: “Every child deserves to get gifts and experience the magic of Christmas, no matter what their circumstances are.

“We’re not asking people to spend much money but nobody should go without this Christmas, so if you are able to assist, don’t be shy. It will be greatly appreciated.”

The NB4CC initiative was started five years ago by Jodie MacFarlane after a discussion with her 12-year-old daughter about children who don’t receive any gifts for Christmas.

People can support the campaign by visiting Keanie Park to hand in shoeboxes containing gifts for babies, young children, teenagers or adults.

The team will also be delighted to receive backpacks filled with items that can be given to those who are homeless.

Boxes can be filled with new items, such as pyjamas and slippers, a book or activity, toys for kids or even something as simple as hot chocolate.

Toiletries and school supplies would also be useful.

Taylor Fisher, a trustee for NB4CC, said: “This has been a difficult year for everyone and we have already seen a massive increase in requests across Renfrewshire – and particularly in Johnstone.

“We rely on donations to fill these requests and are grateful to Johnstone Burgh for their support this year.

“They have already made a huge impact by raising awareness of our charity and encouraging players, families and supporters to donate.”

For more information about drop-off times, visit facebook.com/johnstone.burgh.1.

Further details of the campaign, including a list of other drop-off points in Renfrewshire, can be found at facebook.com/thenightbeforechristmasboxes.

Cash donations can be made via justgiving.com/campaign/nightbeforechristmascampaign.