A big-hearted Sutton foster mother has launched an appeal to make it a happier Christmas for children in care this year.

Pauline Rees, who has been fostering children for 22 years, launched The Giving Tree at The Pallisades shopping centre.

It is hoped shoppers will pick up a gift tag from the giant tree and attach a gift for a child in care.

Mrs Rees, a 56-year-old grandmother, called on Christmas shoppers to act compassionately at this time of giving.

And she hopes people's generosity will make children feel they belong - a bit like her children.

"I used to go upstairs at night and see my children asleep and happy.
"They were cherished and cared for - I thought we had room for another child and that is how we started fostering.
"We are still enjoying the challenge, most of all we enjoy the wonderful feeling it creates taking a child into your home and loving them, never forgetting they are someone else's child."

The tree is set to be in The Pallisades until Sunday, December 15.