With Christmas fast approaching, we are calling on local businesses and readers to donate to our 24th Christmas Toy Appeal.

Each year the Dorset Echo helps to provide children in need with a gift to unwrap on Christmas Day, our way of helping to spread some festive joy.

All the toys collected will be distributed before the big day to children who really appreciate them.

Last year a total of 84 children in Dorset received a gift from the generosity of kind-hearted readers and local businesses who donated a fantastic £5,370.

Maureen Jolliffe, retail co-ordinator at the Dorset Echo, said: “Make the magic of Christmas reach children and young people across the Dorset Echo area by providing them with a gift they may otherwise not have had.

“You can get involved in this year’s toy appeal by making a toy donation at one of our local retailers. Alternatively, you can make a donation online and we can purchase the gift to make someone smile.

“Sourcing, collecting and organising the toys for hundreds of children is not an easy task – the toys are usually matched to the age and interest of each child individually.

“We ask readers to give a thought to needy children this Christmas and buy one extra present to go in a Dorset Echo Toy Appeal bin.”

Any businesses wishing to make a £100 donation should contact maureen.jolliffe@localiq.co.uk, or call 01305 830811.

Donations are also welcomed from readers for any amount, to donate to the Dorset Echo Toy Appeal 2023 please make your payment online at dorsetecho.co.uk/toyappeal.

Toy Appeal bins are located at the following locations:

Weymouth

  • Asda,
  • Howleys
  • Morrisons
  • Tesco town centre
  • WHSmith
  • Family Shopper (Abbotsbury Road)

Dorchester

  • Tesco
  • Toymaster
  • WHSmith
  •  Boo’s Toy Shop (Poundbury)

Portland

  • Co-Op (Easton)
  •  Tesco (Easton)

Bridport

  • Morrisons
  • Toymaster