A charity has launched an appeal to help spread a little festive cheer to those who will be spending Christmas in hospital.

Barts Charity, which funds projects at Barts Health centres, including Whipps Cross Hospital in Leytonstone, is calling the public to get involved with its Send a Smile with Santa campaign.

The foundation is aiming to raise enough cash to deliver a present to every child and older person who will be receiving treatment in Barts hospitals over Christmas.

Victoria Noble, Events and Campaigns Officer at Barts Charity, said: “This year we want to make Send a Smile with Santa bigger and better than ever.

“We rely on the support of our local community to ensure no patient is left out at Christmas.

“Buying a present for someone in hospital is a lovely way to spread a bit of joy, while donating money will be a lasting gift to support patients and hospital staff both at Christmas and into 2018.”

The appeal is also raising money that will support the Children’s Play Team and Older People’s Services across Barts hospitals.

Money raised will be used for what is most needed on the wards, including new equipment and “comfort packs” for older patients containing toiletries, eye masks and books.

The deadline for donations is December 6. To send a gift to the appeal, visit: bartscharity.org.uk/Christmas. To donate cash, visit: bit.ly/sendasmile17.