Geri spices up Times great TOY APPEAL

GENEROUS: Geri Halliwell backs Times campaign

A FORMER Spice Girl turned children's author has exclusively backed the Kentish Times Christmas Toy Appeal.

'Ginger Spice' Geri Halliwell, 36, has thrown her weight behind our second annual campaign that last year saw hundreds of toys donated to children's wards in Bromley, Bexley, Woolwich and Dartford.

And the mum to two-year-old Bluebell Madonna has generously vowed to donate bagfuls of toys herself.

She said: "I have got a massive bag of toys that I was just about to throw away, perfectly good toys, and it would be such a shame to throw them away and would be very happy to give them to the Toy Appeal.

"I don't believe in waste at all, I try to recycle everything. I have learned the more you give, the more the world gives back to you. It feels good to give, no matter how small the gift.

"I have an abundance of toys that my kid has just grown out of, so I am glad they will go to good use."

She added: "It is so important to be grateful for what you have, we are all so lucky really. So many people have nothing at all.

"My message to all children in hospital this Christmas is just get well soon and you are being very brave - just keep it up. I wish you all a merry Christmas."

Ms Halliwell is due to read extracts from the latest of her children's books Ugenia Lavender: The One and Only before turning on the Christmas lights at Bluewater in Greenhithe tonight.

Ms Halliwell, sold over 55 million CDs during the 1990s when the Spice Girls stormed the charts with their feisty brand of 'girl power'.

Since leaving the group, she has enjoyed a successful reunion tour but is now focusing on her writing and role as a UN Goodwill Ambassador.

She added: "I try to speak to people's hearts and minds. I am not a political animal, I just care but I wouldn't claim to be a role model, I am just doing the best I can."

During her visit to Bluewater she will read from the new book in the Winter Wonderland at 4pm and sign copies at the Waterstone's bookstall before the Christmas light switch-on at 6pm.

There will then be a fireworks display, followed by an ice-skating performance at the Ice Rink and a chance to see Santa in his grotto.