A landmark appeal by an inspirational teenager to bring a smile to less fortunate families at Christmas has begun.

Joe Tully is back to spread some festive goodwill having launched his Petersfield Christmas Give 10th Anniversary Appeal.

Supporters have already donated toys, selection boxes, chocolates and goodies to children, families and individuals facing a tough Christmas through his annual appeal. But the 14-year-old is hopeful supporters will dig a little bit deeper this year as he celebrates a decade of giving.

The Petersfield School student, who started the appeal when he was just four with help from his brother, has already been encouraged with the response.

He said: “I like helping people and every year I hear people saying they really appreciate what we do.

“The fact people say it’s amazing is great and it’s nice to be recognised but I don’t do it for that, it’s just nice to help.”

He added: “Last year was really good and we had a really good response, but with this year being the tenth it might just encourage a few more people to do it.”

Joe is collecting on behalf of Petersfield Food Bank, The Kings Arms and HomeStart Butser while donations can be dropped off at Jakes Toys, The Dandy Cat, Free Shop Petersfield and The Little Leaf Play Café off the High Street.

A “Giving Tree” has been set up at the latter where you can buy a gift for a child named on a tag while cash donations can also be made at Jakes Toys.

Selection boxes are especially welcome as Joe wants to give £150 to the Kings Arms. He can’t put a figure on many goodies he has donated over the decade, but there’s always room for more.

He added: “I think we’ve probably given away over a thousand presents over the decade and I would like to keep it going for at least another two or three years.

“But whatever happens I’m still going to keep on helping people.”