HUNDREDS of toys have been collected by generous locals to bring joy to disadvantaged children in Watford this Christmas.

The annual Toy Service at Stanborough Park Seventh-day Adventist Church on Saturday saw youngsters pile up toys, which will go to those less fortunate than themselves via Watford's social services department.

Three large sackfuls of toys and scores of other gifts were presented to Watford Council Chairman Ellie Burtenshaw by Mrs Pat Walton, whose father Alfred Kelly MBE started the service 43 years ago.

Councillor Burtenshaw said: "I accept on behalf of children who will not have much in life. I know it will bring joy and happiness to those children.

"Nobody told me I'd be one of Father Christmas' helpers, which is what it felt like as I saw the children putting toys in the sacks."

The service was led by Pastor Robert Vine, who said it was important to remember the true meaning of Christmas.

He said: "There is a tendency today, in our wider society, to divorce Christ from Christmas."