AN Italian restaurant in Bishopton has launched an appeal to help make sure it’s a wonderful Christmas time for kids across Renfrewshire.

Angelini’s Pizzeria Cafe, in Greenock Road, has pledged to donate £1,500 to three local schools, which will be used to buy presents for pupils from cash-strapped families in a dignified and discreet manner.

The popular restaurant is urging its customers to help raise more funds for its appeal, as well as nominate schools in Renfrewshire that they believe should receive the money.

Brian Cunningham, who co-owns Angelini’s Pizzeria Cafe with his neighbour John Mackay, said he was inspired to take action when he heard how many families are struggling to make ends meet.

He told The Gazette: “I recently noticed that my wife was quite upset during a phone call she had with her friend, who is a deputy headteacher at a local school.

“Her friend was really worried about many of the kids not receiving a proper Christmas this year and she told my wife that, last year, a wee girl only received a toothbrush as a present.

“It has been a challenging year for us all, including my own business, but to hear that really puts things into perspective.

“I asked my business partner John what we could do and we thought this would be the best way for us to help as many children as we can.”

Any school in Renfrewshire can be nominated, with the total amount raised by Monday, November 30, determining how many will receive a donation of up to £500.

Brian said: “The response to our appeal so far has been unbelievable. Within the first 12 hours of sharing the Facebook post, it had received around 35,000 views – and there are now well over 1,000 nominations for schools.

“Now we’re focusing on donations because the more funds we are able to collect, the greater number of schools we can help.

“For instance, if we raise £3,000, that’s £500 for the six most nominated schools.

“If people are able to donate anything at all, even just a couple of pounds, it will make a difference to a lot of kids this Christmas.”

To nominate a school, search for Angelini’s Christmas Schools Appeal on Facebook. To make a donation, visit www.angelinis.co.uk/product/angelinis-christmas-schools-appeal/.