A SUPERMARKET is urging its customers to donate to the Echo’s Christmas Toy Appeal as they stock up on groceries.

Asda, in Newstead Road, Weymouth, is busy collecting donations as shoppers start to buy the ingredients for Christmas dinner.

Community colleague at Asda Sandy West said: “We have been a part of this appeal ever since the Echo launched it and we think it’s an absolutely amazing idea.

“Our customers are so generous in what they give, it’s absolutely brilliant.

“By the time the appeal closes each year we are inundated with presents.

“It makes your Christmas that little bit more special to know that on Christmas morning when you’re at home with your loved ones, you’ve giving someone else a nice day.”

Sandy added that although gifts for small children are much appreciated, teenagers also benefit from the appeal.

She said: “We get lots of presents for young children but it’s especially nice when we receive something for the older ones as Christmas is a special time for them too.

“Even if it’s just a gift card or something small, it’s so well received.”

Last year the Echo office in Weymouth was full of sacks of presents before social workers took them to give to needy children on Christmas Day.

Toy collection bins are now in place at locations across Dorset ready to take more generous donations.

The Dorset Echo on the Granby Industrial Estate and the Echo Dorchester office in Antelope Walk are also accepting donations.

The Toy Appeal is part of the Echo’s Give Back This Christmas campaign in which the paper will highlight all good deeds and festive spirit over the next few months.

The Echo is also looking for businesses to donate £100 to top up the funds raised and ensure every child who has signed up receives a gift.

Sandy said: “It doesn’t have to be a big present that people donate for the Toy Appeal.

“You can imagine the look on someone’s face when they open your gift and that thought makes donating completely worthwhile.”

What it's all about

ThE Dorset Echo is highlighting individuals, businesses or organisations who are doing something to help others as part of the Give Back This Christmas campaign.

Are you volunteering, donating money to charity or doing something to give back this Christmas? If you are a business helping a charity or helping to build something for your community let us know.

Contact the Echo newsdesk on 01305 830999 or email newsdesk@dorsetecho.co.uk