Hundreds of gifts for children in need were collected in Castille Square this year, the fifth edition of the "Gift of Love" initiative that came to an ened yesterday.

Spearheaded by the Prime Minister's wife Lydia Abela, the event was held over five days as part of a Christmas village that was set up.

Addressing those present, Abela said that each year she is impressed by the generosity of the Maltese people.

Abela said that this year the event extended to the corridors of Mater Dei Hospital in memory of Jake Vella, where food for stray animals was collected.