More stores in Dorchester are jumping on the toy appeal bandwagon to help us put a smile on the faces of disadvantaged children this Christmas.

Boots, Howleys Toymaster and Tesco are the latest stores to donate to the Dorset Echo Toy Appeal so needy children will have something to open on Christmas morning.

Tony Stephens, store manager of Boots Dorchester, said: “We are more than happy to support this year’s Toy Appeal. We have donated a few bins full of toys so far, I think we are up to our third or fourth.

“Our customers have been donating and placing products in the buckets on their way out. I think there must have been a couple of hundred pounds worth of toys donated. The first bucket was completely overflowing.”

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

The Dorchester branch of Howleys Toymaster are doing their bit for the Dorset Echo Toy Appeal and collecting public donations at appeal bins located in store.

Store assistant Kai Lam said: “We join the appeal every year because we work in a toy shop. There are a lot more homeless people every year including children so we thought we would donate to help them.

“Most of what we have donated is children’s toys. We are up to our third box.

“My colleague and I have brought something to put in the bin. We are in a position where we can. It is nice to give back and it all goes towards making someone happy. The toys which have been donated are nice and Christmassy.”

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.

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

Tesco Dorchester has shown that every little helps by joining this year’s toy appeal.

Natalie Hall, community champion for Tesco Dorchester, said: “There have been quite a few times when we have had to get someone to pick stuff up because the box is overflowing with toys. We have appeal for us to support. So far two to three bins of toys have been donated. One woman brought us two bin bags full of toys which she donated. A lot of people are getting involved.”

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 email debbie.hellaby@dorsetecho.co.uk