A LOCAL radio station is doing its bit to bring Christmas cheer to every home this festive season.

Radio Borders has launched its Cash For Kids Mission Christmas appeal which aims to make sure no child in the Borders and Northumberland goes without a present this December.

Regional charity manager for Radio Borders, Emma Kemp explained that their Mission Christmas appeal was of particular importance this year.

She said: "The impact coronavirus has had on vulnerable families has been profound, so our 2020 appeal is arguably more important than ever before."

Ms Kemp added that the pandemic had been "challenging" for Cash For Kids.

"This year has been overwhelmingly challenging for Cash for Kids as we try to continue helping families throughout the region, while ensuring that our team members and volunteers remain safe," she said.

"But, despite the obstacles, we’ve been absolutely determined to continue with Mission Christmas.

"It’s been amazing seeing everyone pull together and come up with innovative solutions to ensure that – once again – every child in the Scottish Borders and north Northumberland wakes up to a present on Christmas Day."

And in the face of the ongoing pandemic, the charity has limited drop-off spaces in the Borders to 16, while also setting up an online cash donation system.

Across the Borders, drop-off locations include the Co-op in Selkirk, the Christmas Mission headquarters in Tweedbank, and Asda in Galashiels.

Businesses in the region have also stepped up to support the Christmas charity appeal. One of the first to offer a cash donation was Saltire Roofing & Building, who gave £500 when the appeal was launched earlier this month.

Managing director for the company, Steven McIntosh, said: "Saltire Roofing & Building proudly supports Cash for Kids Mission Christmas every year, and we’re first to donate to the appeal this year because we know how much it matters.

"COVID-19 has impacted on all our lives and delivering this year’s Mission Christmas will prove a significant challenge.

"Thousands of local children will still be wishing to wake up to a present from Santa, and we cannot let them down.

"If you can donate, please do so now, and together we can bring some happiness to the children who need it most this Christmas."

Cash For Kids has also created a handy guide on gift ideas for children of all ages which can be found along with the full list of all the Borders drop-off locations online.

Ms Kemp added: "We’d urge everyone to do their bit, either through gift drop-offs or cash donations, and let’s end 2020 on a positive note."

To make a cash donation and for more information, visit: planetradio.co.uk/borders/charity/events/mission-christmas-scottish-borders/