Twitter appeal gets Christmas presents for foster boys Published duration 18 December 2016

image copyright Sally Baines image caption PC Sally Baines said thousands of gifts were donated to the boys following her Twitter appeal

A policewoman who appealed for Christmas presents for two young boys in foster care says she has been "humbled" by the huge response.

PC Sally Baines of West Yorkshire Police posted the appeal on Twitter on Friday, for two boys she said had never had pillows, toothbrushes or toys.

"Thousands" of gifts have been given.

Ms Baines, from Huddersfield, said she was "overwhelmed" by the generous donations, and said the boys now had "more than enough" presents.

She said a few would be chosen for the boys, who may not be able to take many with them as they are moved around the care system, but that she hoped the rest of the toys could go to children in similar situations in the Kirklees area.

The donations started after Ms Baines's first tweet, on Friday, which said : "Just been told about 2 kids under 6 who have been taken into foster care. Never had pillows, toothbrushes, toys. I am heartbroken."

image copyright Sally Baines image caption One little boy donated two cars from his toy box

She then tweeted : "Been asked if I can donate any toys or books for them, I think I will be going shopping this weekend to get them some stuff."

The Huddersfield Examiner launched an appeal on Saturday and tweeted : "Can you help two little boys in foster care who have never had any Christmas presents?"

image copyright Twitter/Sally Baines

Ms Baines, who is herself a mother, said before counting the presents she thought "hundreds" had been donated to the boys.

They include teddies, books, a football and a Star Wars scooter.

One little boy gave two of his toy cars. Ms Baines said: "He brought them in from his toy box at home."

image copyright Sally Baines image caption Sally Baines tweeted: "Alfie guarding some of the presents that have been donated at the station following the @Examiner appeal #Thankyou @WYP_Hudds"