A DAD who knows what a magical time of year Christmas can be for a child has given a generous donation so that others can have a little bit of the joy.

Weymouth Motor Services has donated £100 to this year's Christmas Toy Appeal.

It is run by Mark Owen, who says the company tries to do as much as it can to help make a difference to the local community.

This is the 17th year of the Toy Appeal and, unfortunately, it is needed now more than ever.

There are hundreds of families across the county who are struggling, for many different reasons.

We believe that every child deserves to smile at Christmas and so we want to give them all a gift from Santa.

Over the years, our kind-hearted readers and businesses have given generously to help us help those children. And this year is no exception.

Weymouth Motor Services is one of many businesses that have so far donated £100 to the Toy Appeal.

Mr Owen said that being a dad made him see how magical Christmas can be and he wants to help other children this festive season.

"We have decided to donate to this cause because we look to support local charities where donations make a difference to the local community," he said.

"Having children, I know what an amazing time of year it is for them and it's an awful shame that some may go with little or without at this time of year. "

You don't have to give £100 to help us with the appeal- every donation, no matter how small, helps.

There are collection bins, where you can drop toys, in various locations across the area.

This includes in both Dorset Echo offices, on the Granby Industrial Estate and in Antelope Walk, Dorchester.

For a full list of bins, visit dorsetecho.co.uk Gifts ideas include Lego, dolls, games, gift vouchers and perfume sets.