SUPPORTING the local community is the reason one business has donated to the Echo’s Christmas Toy Appeal.

Olds Garage, in Bramdon Lane, Portesham, has given £100 towards making it a merry Christmas for hundreds of children across Dorset.

Business owner Alan Old said: “I think you should look after your neighbours and this donation will go towards making Christmas special for needy children in Dorset.

“I’m Dorset through and through and I think this appeal is an excellent idea because it’s helping kids in the local area.

“It’s more important than ever to look after your own.”

Last year 30 businesses donated £100 to the appeal and the Echo is hoping more will give generously this year.

The money raised will go to top up funds raised by the appeal and ensure every child who has signed up receives a gift on Christmas Day.

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 coming weeks.

Echo Toy Appeal bins can be found in locations across Dorset for donations of toys, games, books, puzzles and gift cards.

Now in its 12th year Echo Toy Appeal has brought festive cheer to hundreds of children and this year the Echo is hoping to help even more.

Mr Old added: “This appeal has been running for years and it’s a great cause.

“It’s obviously successful and a great idea, that’s why it’s been established for so long.

“It’s for those that haven’t got a great Christmas to look forward to like the rest of us.”