CHILDREN'S charity CHICKS has had a great boost to its Christmas appeal thanks to support from The Wrigley Company in Plymouth.

The CHICKS Christmas appeal was launched last month to raise funds to provide disadvantaged children from across the UK with a traditional Christmas they otherwise would not have.

In support of the appeal, Wrigley has agreed to sponsor 16 children to enjoy a Christmas break with the charity.

The children, aged eight to 15, come from various backgrounds, including living in poverty, suffering from neglect and abuse or have caring responsibilities for sick disabled relatives.

Head of fundraising and communications Tim Bunting said: 'We're delighted to have the support of Wrigley this Christmas and cannot thank them enough for their generous donation which will enable us to give 16 children a magical Christmas to remember.

'They have really helped our CHICKS at Christmas appeal; however, with many more children in need of a traditional Christmas there is still a long way to go.

'We desperately need the support of generous individuals and companies to help us give disadvantaged children the wonderful Christmas every child should experience.'

Away from their problems at home, the children will be able to experience Christmas in a safe, fun and supportive environment alongside other children, CHICKS staff and volunteers at the charity's retreats in Brentor and Par, Cornwall.

Lauren Kleinstuber, consumer and corporate affairs coordinator at Wrigley said: 'The Wrigley Company is delighted to support the Christmas break for its second year.

'The work that CHICKS does in providing these children with the opportunity to be care free and confident for a week and enjoy a traditional Christmas that many of us take for granted is truly incredible and we're proud to continue to support its work.'