A Dorset society is sorting the men from the boys by doing their bit for disadvantaged children. 

The Society of Dorset Men has generously donated £100 to the Dorset Echo Toy Appeal to help us make sure every child has a gift to open this Christmas morning. 

The society's deputy chairman, Andrew Prowse said: "We have supported the appeal for many years and think it's a very worthwhile cause and hopefully will continue to do so for many years to come. 

"We wouldn't want to see any child without a present on Christmas morning."

The Society of Dorset Men was founded in 1904 to promote good fellowship among Dorset men and foster a love of the county and pride in its history and traditions. 

With around 1,200 members, the society encourages members to be enthusiastic about all things Dorset- not forgetting the Dorset dialect- and to foster a love and pride of the county, its history, culture and traditions.

The society's Toy Appeal donation will be used to buy gifts and vouchers for disadvantaged children.

Now in its 18th year, the Toy Appeal aims to ensure every child - no matter what their circumstances - has a gift to open come Christmas morning.

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 can donate new toys and gifts at appeal bins found in shops across the county. 

Before Christmas the donations will be distributed to children and teenagers who would otherwise go without. 

Appeal collection points can be found at: 

  • Co-op, Easton Portland
  • Goulds Garden Centre, Weymouth 
  • Howleys, Weymouth 
  • Toymaster, Bridport
  • Toymaster, Dorchester
  • Morrisons, Weymouth
  • Morrisons, Bridport
  • Tesco, Weymouth
  • Tesco, Dorchester
  • Tesco, Portland
  • Wilkinsons, Weymouth 
  • The Sealife Center, Weymouth 
  • Boo’s Toyshop, Poundbury
  • Sainsburys, Weymouth
  • Matalan, Weymouth 
  • Mole Valley, Dorchester
  • Boots, Weymouth
  • Boots, Dorchester
  • Nationwide, Weymouth 
  • And of course Dorset echo 

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