A DORSET charity is urging people to put their unwanted Christmas gifts to good use.

Autism Wessex, which provides services for people affected by autism and other development disorders, learning disabilities and mental health problems, is welcoming donations of any unwanted gifts.

The donations can then be used as raffle prizes or in auctions to help raise vital funds for the work of the organisation.

Community and events fundraiser Paul Reade said: “We all receive gifts which, although given with the best of intentions, aren’t always suitable for us as gifts for one reason or another.

“We are urging the local community to generously donate any unwanted items, whether it be a bottle of wine, a toiletries gift set, unwanted books, DVDs, vouchers, unwanted chocolate boxes or biscuits etc to drop them into our Christchurch or Dorchester office for our raffle collection.

“We do ask the items are in perfect condition and we will use them at events we will be holding throughout the year to help raise vital funds.

“Please don’t let items gather dust when they could help us make a real difference.”

For more details on future fundraising events visit autismwessex.org.uk