AN opticians in Birchwood Shopping Centre has launched a Christmas donations appeal inspired by a little boy who tragically died last year.

William Fenton, age six, died in December 2019 at Alder Hey Children's Hospital after spending four months on the transplant register to receive a new bowel, liver and stomach

The youngster, from Callands, was born with a rare form of Hirschsprung's disease.

Now, AH Mertons Opticians is supporting the charity which William's parents set up in their son's memory - William's Gift.

James Houlihan from AH Mertons explained: "William's family have been coming to see us for their eyecare for years, and we were all really saddened to hear of William's passing.

"When we found out about the charity set up in his memory, we were keen to help in any way we could.

"William had a chronic health complaint, so he and his family spent a lot of time in hospitals.

"The charity was set up to bring a smile to children and families in hospital at a difficult time, through toys or gifts for children, and care packages for parents.

"After discussions with William's parents, we decided to lend our social media and shop-front and created the Christmas Smile Appeal to raise awareness of the charity and its great work, and to make Christmas a bit brighter for some families in need.

"We have been asking for donations of new toys, cuddly toys, arts and crafts, board games and gifts that would bring a smile to a child in hospital.

"They can be purchased and then delivered to us at AH Mertons Opticians in Birchwood Shopping Centre.

"We also have an Amazon Wishlist which will also be delivered to us and we will ensure delivery to the charity."

The Amazon Wishlist can be viewed at amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/2CP98MAKOX1BL/ref=nav_wishlist_lists_1?_encoding=UTF8&type=wishlist.

For more information, visit facebook.com/events/2230574370408235/.