CUSTOMERS to Weymouth's Howleys Toymaster are being urged to give one toy a new home this Christmas by contributing to the store's collection bin and backing the Echo's 2015 Toy Appeal.

Last year thousands of brand new toys were donated to underprivileged children across Dorset to unwrap on Christmas Day.

Pete Healey, manager at the store, said: "We have been involved in the appeal since it began and it's something we are proud to take part in and support every year.

"We can see that each year it is growing and developing and the value of items is also increasing. All items, big or small, are very gratefully received."

Mr Healey added: "One thing we do here is collect for the slightly older children as well as the younger children too.

"It is even more important for the slighter older children I think as they have a greater concept of the meaning and joy of Christmas and will cherish the toys."

Weymouth's Howleys Toymaster is one of 27 local businesses that have joined the Christmas Toy Appeal and have collection bins in their premises.

Shoppers are being encouraged to drop into one of the stores when they are out doing their Christmas shopping in the coming weeks and businesses can get involved by donating £100 to the appeal.

The appeal is also looking for businesses willing to donate £100, which will top up the funds raised by the appeal and ensure every child who has signed up receives a gift at Christmas.

Last year nearly £5,000 was raised with this year anticipated to be bigger and better.

All the gifts collected will go to children who may have been suffering abuse, neglect, be living in refuges with their mothers or may be in the care of families who simply cannot afford to buy them something special for Christmas.

Both Echo offices in Weymouth and Dorchester are also accepting donations.

We are looking for 30 businesses to donate £100 each for our appeal.

The appeal has been amazingly successful in previous years and has been the main way that the toy appeal has been able to provide so many toys and gifts to needy children.

Each donation is gratefully received and all those donating £100 will be featured in the Echo.

To donate £100 call Debbie Hellaby on 01305 830815 or email debbie.hellaby@dorsetecho.co.uk