Donors, beneficiaries and fundraisers gathered at RTHK's Broadcasting House on Wednesday evening for a glittering launch ceremony for this year's Operation Santa Claus campaign.

The annual fundraiser, jointly organised by RTHK Radio 3 and the South China Morning Post, has been a fixture in the festive calendar since 1988.

Financial Secretary Paul Chan was the guest of honour for the ceremony, which he described as a "marvelous function" and a testimony to the generosity of corporate donors and the general public in Hong Kong.

Other speakers included the director of broadcasting, Eddie Cheung, and the Post's general counsel, Paul Wong.

On behalf of the beneficiary organisations, Hersha Chellaram, founder and executive director of the Yama Foundation, said: "We offer you our heartfelt, most deepest gratitude. Thanks to your trust in us and your belief in us, together we can do so much to make Hong Kong great."

On behalf of the campaign's corporate supporters, David Wallis from Morgan Stanley Hong Kong thanked RTHK and the South China Morning Post "for all of the good work they do through Operation Santa Claus."

The theme for this year's campaign is "Magic Moments", and 16 charities and good causes will benefit, covering everything from children and youth needs to the environment and help for people with disabilities.

To find out more about Operation Santa Claus or to support the campaign, visit the Operation Santa Claus website.