Peterhead recruitment and employment agency, Genesis, donated the gifts to the 'Giving Tree', in the hope of offering some of the area's less privileged youngsters the chance of a happier Christmas.

Wendy Marr, office supervisor at Genesis, told the Buchanie: "We are all so fortunate at this time of year and it is easy to forgot people that are not so well off. We always give to a worthwhile cause every year and this year we chose the giving tree.

"It has been nice to be able to give someone not so fortunate the chance to have a nicer Christmas."

The special 'Giving Tree' is the brainchild of Aberdeenshire Council's social work department, and provides the area's less privileged children with Christmas gifts, donated generously by the public.
Shona Evans of the social work department at Strichen told the Buchanie she was thrilled with the gifts provided by Genesis, as well as by how successful the campaign had been this year.

She said: "This is the third year we have had the giving tree at Happy Plant, and we really appreciate all the fantastic support and help they have given us. We also want to say a massive thank you for the generosity of Genesis, as well as that of all the customers who have donated presents. We have had a wonderful response and are delighted with all the gifts."

The 'Giving Tree' will be at the Happy Plant Garden Centre in Mintlaw, until Sunday December 20. Gifts donated after this date will still be accepted for next years appeal.