Wilko in Weymouth has helped spread some Christmas cheer by supporting this year’s Dorset Echo Toy Appeal.

The store on Westham Road is the latest business to help put a smile on the faces of disadvantaged children this Christmas.

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.

A toy bin has been placed in the store and shoppers are being encouraged to buy an extra gift this festive season Tim Williams, store manager of Wilko’s Weymouth branch, said a number of customers have made donations.

He added: “It has been going very well.

“We have had at least two and a half trolley loads of toys donated and the toy bin is still being used by customers. There has been a great response.

“People have been donating Lego and I saw a little football table go in, there have been plenty of toys to make some children very happy.

“We have done it every year since the Dorset Echo approached us, it is a great way to support the local community.”

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

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.”

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 alternatively email debbie.hellaby@dorsetecho.co.uk