AN air stewardess is to swap the skies for gathering supplies in a bid to make Christmas special for hundreds of disadvantaged kids across Renfrewshire.

Kelly McMillan, 33, will ditch her job as a cabin crew member at Glasgow Airport for a fortnight to take on the role of one of Santa’s helpers.

It will be the second year mum-of-two Kelly, from Houston, has co-ordinated a collection, after more than 100 local people and businesses gifted £3,500 worth of toys last Christmas.

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Kelly told The Gazette: “Last year’s effort was such a success and I want to thank everyone who helped.

“I just couldn’t believe what had been raised by everyone but we want to make this year even bigger and I hope to collect £4,000 worth of toys during the two weeks.

“Anything I can get is brilliant and every toy makes a difference.”

Last year’s collection was so successful that Kelly was honoured by Glasgow Airport through the Making a Difference in the Community Award.

She was inspired to start the collection as, growing up, Christmas wasn’t so special for her.

Kelly said her dad was an alcoholic and she rarely received gifts. However, 11 years later, he is now sober and “the best dad” she could ask for.

Kelly’s partner Gavin and 10-year-old son Nicholas are rallying round to help with the toy appeal.

She said: “We live quite a privileged life, so we really want to help others as best we can.

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“It is good for Nicholas to get to see what life can be like for some people.”

Kelly’s collection will run from Monday, November 12, until Sunday, November 25, with all toys being handed to the social work team in Johnstone in plenty of time to be distributed by Christmas.

Toys can be handed in at the Post Office in Houston or Johnstone. Alternatively, drop off donations directly at the social work department based at Floorsburn House, in Floors Street.