This is a final call to local businesses to donate to our annual Christmas Toy Appeal.

As the appeal draws to close it is with great sadness that will may not be able to provide for very child in need of a gift on to unwrap on Christmas day. 

We understand times are hard and that there is less money to go around but we are urging you to step forward and help make a child's Christmas day a bit more special by donating to our Toy Appeal.

Debbie Hellaby, brand, marketing and compliance manager at the Dorset Echo said:  "For the first time in 24 years, we are saddened to have had to advise some of the social workers that distribute toys to the children, that we will not be able to provide them any toys this Christmas.

"In 2022 we had requests for 848 children and raised £5370, this year as the Toy Appeal comes to a close we have only received donations of £2.5k. 

"Even with the generosity of our readers, who continue to support the appeal by placing toys in the collection bins we have a massive shortfall, as even the toy donations have reduced. 

"I urge anyone that is in a position to help in this final week to make a donation online at  before the end of the week."

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

Any businesses wishing to make a £100 donation to the 2023 Dorset Echo toy appeal 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.

Please ensure to include the relevant contact details with your payment.

We are also asking for people to give a thought to children in need this Christmas and buy one extra present to go in a Dorset Echo Toy Appeal bin.

Toy Appeal bins are located at the following locations:

Weymouth

  • Asda,
  • Howley’s
  • Morrisons
  • Tesco Town centre
  • WH Smiths
  • Family Shopper (Abbotsbury Road)

Dorchester

  • Tesco
  • Toymaster
  • WH Smiths
  •  Boo’s Toy Shop (Poundbury)

Portland

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

Bridport

  • Morrisons
  • Toymaster