A bookshop has given a boost to this year's Newham Christmas Toy Appeal but donations have been "very slow" so far.

The annual appeal, named after Kevin Jenkins OBE and organised by Ambition, Aspire, Achieve (AAA) in partnership with the Newham Recorder, is calling on the community for help.

The appeal aims to provide more than 15,000 new toys to over 3,000 children in Newham.

An appeal organiser said: "Donations have started to come in but very slowly. "We need help now."

Support has already come from Newham Bookshop, which has provided a collection of books for people of all ages.

Appeal co-ordinator Paula Blake said: "It’s another vital donation for the appeal for which we are so grateful."

The appeal has been further boosted by AAA's participation in The Big Give, a fundraising initiative that doubles donations made between December 3 and December 10.

AAA business manager Lucy Jenkins said: "Any donations we receive through a specific link they will double for the appeal."

Donations are being collected through the AAA/Recorder’s Amazon Wish List -amzn.eu/dDHhZLz and AAA’s JustGiving Page at justgiving.com/campaign/xmasappeal2.

These platforms feature a selection of items including toys, hats, CDs, books, headphones, watches, and teddies, which can be purchased and donated directly.

Cash donations can be made, which will be converted into gifts to fill Christmas stockings.

Donations can also be made in person at the Terence Brown Arc in the Park, Canning Town, from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday and from 10am to 1pm on Saturdays.

Volunteers are already preparing to start work in the appeal’s toy warehouse, donated by Gallions Reach Shopping Park in Beckton.

In aid of the appeal, motorcyclists are making their annual Christmas toy run on November 30.

Organiser John Pryke said: "We are looking forward to another great day.

"The appeal is so important to young people in Newham and we have been happy to lend our support for many years now.

"We always get a great welcome wherever we are on the journeys and the appeal sums up how the community cares for one another."

The ride is organised with help from the Riders Who Want To Make A Difference group, who also welcome donations on their JustGiving Page.