As Christmas approaches and families everywhere begin shopping and preparations for the festive season, we are mindful of those who, in material terms, have very little.

In Pembrokeshire, wonderful support is given to those in need by an excellent group named PATCH.

This is a Christian charitable organisation aiming to relieve the effects of poverty for individuals and families in the county of Pembrokeshire and so is pertinent on a local level.

Again this year PATCH has launched a Toy Appeal, in order to provide gifts on Christmas Day for children of all ages, who would otherwise have no presents to open.

A special Toy Service in support of the appeal is being held at St. Mary's Church at 10 am on Sunday, November 24.

During this service, members of the congregation are invited to donate a brand new toy, sealed and in its package, of any value, for a girl or a boy.

The families which are supported are very carefully assessed before PATCH gives to them and they are certainly the poorest in Pembrokeshire.

Each child in the family will receive five toys and the parents are provided with wrapping paper, sticky tape, ribbon and even a box of sweets for the family to share.

Local residents who may not necessarily be church goers are also invited to support this appeal.

Toys may be left in church in the days leading up to the service, or handed to any church member or one of the clergy.

PATCH relies on the generosity of Pembrokeshire people and it is hoped that this year's Toy Appeal will be even more successful than the one undertaken in 2012.

A representative of PATCH will be attending the service to receive the toy donations and explain more about the way in which the project is operated.

A warm welcome is extended to all to share in the joy of giving and to give thanks for being in a position to offer support those who so desperately need it.