A High Wycombe-based university brought festive cheer to children spending Christmas in hospital by donating toys and gifts.

Bucks New University raised more than £100, with raffle prizes provided by the Caribbean Peoples Foundation (CPF), in a quiz night to pay for the items, with Tesco, in the Eden Shopping Centre, also giving toys.

Anne Swanborough from the university was joined by members of CPF to hand over everything from Star Wars and Marvel toys to colouring books and dolls to the children’s day unit at Wycombe Hospital.

Mrs Swanborough said: “Christmas is a very tough time for the children themselves and their families and I hope the toys and gifts will help put a smile on their faces.

“We were delighted to raise enough to buy a host of toys for the children and we’re pleased to be able to support the children’s day unit.”

Nicola Ruff, Play specialist in the children’s day unit, said: “We would like to say a huge thank you to Bucks New University, Tesco, and the Caribbean Peoples Foundation for this very kind donation. It is hugely appreciated.”

Yvonne David and Carlos Layne, of CPF’s executive team, were joined by Councillor Maz Hussain, of Wycombe District Council, to present the items.

Cllr Hussain said: “I am proud to support the charity and it is a wonderful idea to give toys at this time of year. I hope the children enjoy unwrapping them at Christmas.”

Ms David added: “This is a cause close to my heart as I have a nephew who is now 22 and who, when he was five, was ill and practically lived in this ward.

“It is great to be able to give something back and we wish all the staff, children and their families a safe and peaceful Christmas.”