A fundraising mum from Otley is all set to make Christmas in hospital more bearable again for children across Leeds and beyond.

Mel Metcalfe is repeating her heroic efforts of last year by delivering sackloads of gifts to young people who will be receiving treatment away from home over the festive holidays.

The mum-of-three and dedicated fundraiser has already, with other supporters of her Leeds Children’s Hospital Christmas Gift Appeal, delivered 87 presents to the Forget-Me-Not Children’s Hospice in Huddersfield.

Another 90 will be presented to Martin House Children’s Hospice, near Wetherby, this week, before many more are given to young patients in Leeds General Infirmary and St James’s University Hospital next week.

The appeal has relied on residents across Wharfedale, Aireborough and Horsforth donating gifts at a variety of drop-off points, including local shops.

Mel said: “Thanks to everyone who donated and got involved to help us give gifts to all the brave children who will spending Christmas in hospital.”