Local businesses are once again taking part in the Dorset Echo’s Christmas Toy Appeal.

The appeal, now in its 24th year, collects donations so that children across the county who are less fortunate have a gift to open on the big day.

The Watercress Company at Waddock Cross near Dorchester has once again dipped into its pockets and donated £100 towards the cause.

The company sells watercress, baby leaf salads and wasabi throughout the UK and Europe and is delighted to be taking part in the appeal again.

A spokesperson said: “At The Watercress Company we have always prided ourselves in what we can do raising money for the local community; from bags of watercress for the village fete to large events raising significant contributions. 

“We are pleased to support the Toy Appeal again this year.  Our chairman, Peter Old, is a local businessman and, with 12 grandchildren of his own, he appreciates that Christmas is a special time of the year to bring families together, and we hope that our contribution will help those children in need to have a happy Christmas.”

On top of the company's charitable work, it also sponsors specific events such as school trips for The Thomas Hardye School; the Dorchester Marathon with the Rotary and The Watercress Festival that raised essential funds for Abby’s Heroes.

We are asking you to give a thought to children in need this Christmas and buy one extra present to go in a Dorset Echo Toy Appeal bin, which can be found 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

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.