Children will not be missing out on presents this Christmas thanks to the continuing generosity of the congregation of a church.

Members of Stanborough Park Seventh-day Adventist Church in Garston have continued a 57 year, and counting, tradition of collecting toys which will be handed out to disadvantaged youngsters across Watford this festive season.

Fifty seven years ago, Alf Kelly set himself a challenge of ensuring children didn't miss out on the fun and joy of Christmas. Mr Kelly received an MBE for his charitable work which also included setting up the GROW hostel and the emergency furniture unit, alongside his work with the church.

Mr Kelly's daughter Pat Walton has continued the work of her father, when he died some years ago.

It won't just be children who benefit this Christmas as packages and pampering gifts were also donated for teenagers and mothers.

The Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor was at the church on December 8 to see the collection of gifts, following in the footsteps of his predecessor Dorothy Thornhill who visited the church at Christmas during every year of her mayoral tenure.

The toys will be distributed across the town by charities and social workers.