Shoppers are being encouraged to buy an extra gift this festive season so disadvantaged children have a toy to open on Christmas morning. 

Dorset branches of Howley's Toymaster are doing their bit for the Dorset Echo Toy Appeal and collecting public donations at appeal bins located in store. 

Weymouth branch manager, Pete Healey said: "We have done the Toy Appeal from day one and as well as the bins, we also have the collection pots on the counter. This ensures when the donations are all collected, the Echo can see where the gaps are and buy extra gifts to make sure no child is left out.

He added every year more and more customer come the store enquiring about how to donate and getting behind the appeal. 

Mr Healey said: "Here at the Weymouth store, we cater for slightly older children and young adults. I think a lot of people think about the smaller children but I think it's important to remember the older children who will really value the gesture and the significance of this appeal."

Howley's Toymaster Lego shop and pre-school store in Weymouth also have collection bins. 

The Toy Appeal has now been running for 18 years and aims to collect enough toys, gifts and donations to make sure every child in Dorset has a present to open on Christmas morning - no matter what their circumstances.

Dorset Echo:

Tracy Oldham from Howleys Weymouth

As well as the Weymouth stores, Howleys Toymaster branches in Bridport and Dorchester are also collecting donations. 

Dorchester store assistant, Kai Lam said: "At this time of year there are a lot of people buying presents for loved ones but there are many children out there who won't have that because of their circumstances and by joining in the toy appeal, we can give them a chance to share some Christmas joy."

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

Mr Franklin who works in the Bridport store said: "It's always been a good cause and we always try to support it the best we can to make sure every child has something to open at Christmas."

Echo promotions manager Debbie Hellaby said: “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.” 

As well as public donations at bins across the county, generous businesses have been making £100 donations to buy gifts and vouchers.

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. 

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

Dorset Echo:

Jennifer Prictor from Howleys Dorchester

TOY APPEAL SUGGESTIONS

For children aged 0-3 - Dolls, cars, building bricks, rattles, Vtech toys or similar

For children aged 5-12 - Board games, Magnetix, Lego, Barbie, remote control cars, action heroes, interactive toys, arts and crafts items

For older children aged 13-16 - Aftershave or perfume gift sets, gift vouchers, beauty sets, arts and crafts items We are unable to accept second hand or used toys.

COLLECTION POINTS

Asda - Weymouth
Co-op - Easton, Portland
Goulds Garden Centre, Weymouth
Howleys - Frederick Place, Weymouth
Howleys - Junior shop, Weymouth
Morrisons - Weymouth
Morrisons - Bridport 
Tesco - Weymouth
Tesco - Dorchester
Tesco - Portland
Toymaster - Bridport
Toymaster - Dorchester
Wilkinsons - Weymouth
Sealife - Weymouth
Boo’s Toyshop - Poundbury
Sainsbury’s - Weymouth
Matalan - Weymouth
Mole Valley- Dorchester
Boots - Weymouth
Boots –Dorchester
Nationwide Building Society - Weymouth
The Dorset Echo in Hampshire Road