Green-fingered gardeners are sprucing up their store to do their bit for disadvantaged children this coming festive season. 

Goulds garden centre in Littlemoor Road, Weymouth is once again supporting the Dorset Echo Toy Appeal and thanks to their brand new bin - they are now accepting donations. 

Garden Centre Director, Anthony Gould said: “We are delighted to once again to be able to support the Dorset Echo’s Toy appeal. It’s a fantastic cause and along with the Echo we really would encourage as many people as possible to donate. 

"Please take a moment to buy an extra gift when you’re out Christmas shopping this year. Asking your children to donate a toy is also a great way of teaching them to think about people less fortunate than themselves.

"Every child should wake up on Christmas day with a smile on their face, knowing that there are people out there who care for them - so please give generously."

Goulds is a long-established, proudly independent local family business that employs more than 140 local people.

They stock more than 20,000 product lines, sourced from in excess of 300 different suppliers selling a broad range of plants, horticultural stock, gifts, greeting cards, indoor oak furniture, clothing, kitchenware and food which includes a new range of wines and ales from over a dozen local breweries.

The Toy Appeal is now in it's 18th year and toys donated to Goulds will be given to children who would otherwise not get a visit from Father Christmas this year. 

Goulds is not the only store to have a bin and donations are being accepted at more than 20 stores across the county - so keep your eyes peeled. 

As well as public donations, businesses have also been generously donating £100 to help the echo buy gifts and vouchers. 

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. 

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.