One Portland company certainly does not have a heart of stone, as they pledge funds to help disadvantaged children this festive season. 

Albion Stone, world's leading supplier of Portland stone, is getting in the Yuletide spirit early - donating £100 to the Dorset Echo Toy Appeal.

Office manager, Kelly Matthews said: "For the past few years we have been involved with the Toy Appeal and it goes without saying we would donate again this year. 

"A large majority of us have children and grandchildren we share Christmas with and it is a cause close to our hearts. 

"To be able to put a smile on a child's face at Christmas is priceless - a lot of children take getting presents for Christmas for granted but many aren’t as fortunate. 

"We encourage all local businesses to get involved with this wonderful appeal."

Incorporated in 1927, Albion Stone has been supplying the Jurassic limestone for three-quarters of a century. 

According to their website many of the greatest buildings in London are constructed from Portland Stone, including Banqueting House and, most famously, St Paul's Cathedral.

Today, their Limestone production facilities the most technically advanced in the UK, with in-house masonry works producing a full range of Portland stone products including ashlar cladding, walling, flooring, paving, stone masonry and bespoke carving commissions.

Albion Stone's latest contracts include award winning projects such as Green Park Underground Station and the Bvlgari Hotel in Knightsbridge.

Their generous donation will go towards gifts and toys to make sure every child has a reason to smile this Christmas Day. 

Now in its 18th year, the Dorset Echo Toy appeal aims to make sure children across Dorset have a toy to open on Christmas morning.

As well as business donations, members of the public have generously been putting toys in bins around the area to get them off to a new home.

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.”

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. 

Collection Points are now accepting toy donations and will be based across Dorset. 

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.