A DORCHESTER car dealer is putting all its horse power behind helping disadvantaged children.

Broadmayne Carriage Company in Main Street is getting in the Christmas spirit and generously donated £100 to the Dorset Echo Toy Appeal.

Business owner, Alan Old has supported the appeal every year since its inception, almost two decades ago.

Mr Old said: "I am very pleased to support this wonderful idea for Christmas as always. It's a very good cause and supporting the appeal means I can help those who are less fortunate."

Mr Old added he would encourage other businesses to do the same.

Broadmayne Carriage Company's Toy Appeal donation will be used to buy gifts and vouchers which will then be distributed to disadvantaged children in time for Christmas.

Now in its 18th year, the Toy Appeal aims to ensure every child - no matter what their circumstances - gets a visit from Santa Claus.

Echo promotions manager Debbie Hellaby said: “Without the support of our readers and local businesses we would not be able to help to put smiles on all those families faces at Christmas, so thank you.”

As well as business donations, members of the public have generously been putting new toys in donation bins found in shops around the county so we can get them off to a new home.

Debbie added: “We appreciate that this time of the year is a challenge for every family as each year we have an increasing number of applications made to the appeal for toys.

“We urge those that can to donate, to pop a new gift to one of our collection bins. We particularly struggle to source baby toys and gifts for children age 13 to 16 years but will welcome any donations.”

Last year, the Dorset Echo raised more than £4,493 and collected hundreds of toys through the appeal and we are hoping to top that figure this year - ensuring even more children have a toy to open on Christmas Day.

Collection Points are now accepting toy donations and will be based across Dorset.

For more information or for any businesses wishing to make a £100 donation contact Debbie Hellaby on 01305 830 815 or email debbie.hellaby@dorsetecho.co.uk.

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