A KIND-HEARTED Kilwinning man has launched his annual fundraiser in a bid to bring joy to the life of children going through a tough time at Christmas.

Michael Kirkum has kicked off his Christmas gift appeal for kids at Crosshouse Hospital in his latest bid to share festive spirit.

This will be the eleventh time that the generous Kilwinning dad has put together the appeal - and he hopes that a donation milestone can be reached this time around.

Having smashed his targets on previous occasions, receiving more donations year on year, Michael is hoping that this year can see the appeal help its 20,000th child - and then some.

But his collection for the children's ward at Crosshouse requires help from the community - and he is hoping that an early start on appeals for donations can assist in helping more youngsters than ever before.

This year, Michael is hoping to receive donations of selections boxes, colouring books and crayons, soft toys, board games, baby tous and story books for under fives to hand over to the hospital and other children's groups.

He commented: "Spending time in hospital at Christmas, away from family and friends, can be a stressful time. For children it's magnified ten times.

"This cost-of-living crisis puts a strain on many families, so this appeal not only helps those in hospital but many in our local community.

"Your donations help to keep a bit of normality in their lives - showing that Santa delivers to every child no matter where they are.

"Let's smash last year's total - you can help make a difference."

For those wishing to find our more about the appeal, or to make a donation, you can contact Michael Kirkum on Facebook (facebook.com/michael.kirkum.71), by emailing mjkirkum89@outlook.com or by calling/texting 07961 540780.