CHRISTMAS will come early for more than 200 needy families this weekend. Toys for Tots, an annual drive sponsored by local realtor Coldwell Banker, collected more than 400 presents from kind hearted residents eager to brighten the Christmas season for those less fortunate than themselves.

Kim Webbe and Heather Chilvers of Coldwell Banker spearheaded the effort, which will benefit local charity, The Coalition for the Protection of Children. The gifts will be presented on Sunday, at the Coalition's annual Children's Christmas Party. "Our Christmas party is the highlight of the children's lives, as many of them are living in desperate situations," said Coalition chairperson Sheelagh Cooper. "We are grateful to Kim, Heather, the staff at Coldwell Banker and the hundreds of people who donated toys. We appreciate all that has been done to ensure Bermuda's needy children have a brighter holiday season."In addition to presents, families attending the Coalition's party will be treated to a Christmas dinner. There will also be fun castles and face-painting for the kids. Pictured examining the haul of gifts from left: Coalition communications director, Sherri Simmons, Ms Chilvers and Ms Webbe.