THEIR aim is to give a Christmas gift to 4,000 underprivileged children across Southampton.

That was why school pupils joined forces with panto stars to launch this year’s Daily Echo backed Southampton Voluntary Services Christmas Toy Appeal.

The Toy Appeal was launched with an appearance by the cast of Aladdin from the Nuffield Theatre and Christmas carols from pupils of Moorlands Primary School in Bitterne.

The Mayor of Southampton Cllr Brian Parnell and Meridian TV presenter Fred Dinenage spoke at the event to thank the 30 companies and organisations involved.

Fred said: “This is just the most fantastic occasion.”