BIG-HEARTED shoppers made dreams come true for needy children.

A Christmas toy appeal at Runcorn Shopping Centre received such a big response, a second unit had to be opened to store all the donations.

More than 2,000 presents were distributed to disadvantaged youngsters across Runcorn, Widnes and Warrington.

Centre Manager, Karl Clawley, said he was overwhelmed by everyone’s generosity.

He said: “We chose five charities that work with children.

“I could have cried when out delivering and meeting some of the children.

“The people of Runcorn, Widnes and Warrington should be proud of what they have achieved.”

The shopping centre teamed up with the Warrington Guardian toy appeal and Big Storage which provided the transport.

People were asked to hand in gifts suitable for all ages, from babies to children aged 17.

A record-breaking number of presents was donated.

Appeal co-ordinator Paul Whittaker from Big Storage, said: "The most amazing charitable donation is the anonymous gift. Sadly, for many of the children the appeal supports, these are likely to be the only gifts they unwrapped on Christmas Day.

"Our charities support or care for vulnerable children, some from unimaginably difficult family situations.

The gifts were distributed to Spencer House, Warrington and Halton Hospital, Halton Council support unit, Warrington Council children's support unit and Halton Brook Children’s Centre.

Mr Clawley added: “It is hard to believe in this day and age how many families rely on these charities for support all year round.

“To see the faces of some of the children when seeing so many toys to choose from will stick with me for a long time.

“Thank you to all who donated and worked hard to ensure this project was a huge success.

“It has inevitably recaptured the heart of the community and we look forward to making the appeal an even bigger success in 2015.