News of the latest toy appeal donation is music to our ears as a local band does their bit for disadvantaged children.

Weymouth ukulele band, the Wyke Ukedelics, has given the Dorset Echo Toy Appeal a generous boost and donated £100 to makes sure every child, no matter what their circumstances, has a gift to open come Christmas morning.

Band member Dave Ferris said: "I think it's an excellent cause. We are a local group and we like to make sure we do things locally as we are a hands on group."

The band held a curry and quiz night fundraiser at the Wyke Social Club and all the proceeds were divided between local causes.

Mr Ferris added the club was always looking for new members and met every Tuesday night at the Wyke Social Club.

The Dorset Echo Toy Appeal has been running for 18 years and aims to make sure no child misses out on the joy of Christmas.

The Ukedelic's donation will go help us buy gifts and toys for children who would otherwise not have a present to open come Christmas morning.

As well as donations, members of the public have been dropping of new toys at appeal bins found in shops across the county.

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.

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 in advance of your help thank you.

“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."

Here are a few Toy Appeal suggestions:

For children aged 0-3 - Dolls, cars, building bricks, rattles, Vtech toys or similar

For children aged 5-12 - Board games, Magnetix, Lego, Barbie, remote control cars, action heroes, interactive toys, arts and crafts items

For older children aged 13-16 - Aftershave or perfume gift sets, gift vouchers, beauty sets, arts and crafts items

People are reminded we are unable to accept second hand or used toys.

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