Kind-hearted Dorchester and District Lions Club is the latest organisation to back the Dorset Echo Toy Appeal.

The Lions visited the Echo offices in person to donate £100, which will be spent on Christmas presents for underprivileged children in Dorset.

Club president Tony Howden said: "Dorchester and District Lions are delighted to support the Dorset Echo Christmas Toy Appeal again this year.

"The club considers it especially important to help children and the disadvantaged at this festive time.

"Like other service organisations, we have enjoyed a long association with many local children's charities, especially Kingfisher Ward at the Dorset County Hospital. The Lions regularly purchase craft materials for use in play therapy on the ward, helping to enhance the children's stay whilst receiving treatment, and for many years we have arranged for children and their families to watch Weymouth's Christmas pantomime.

"During the festive season, when there are so many deserving good causes to support in the community, Dorchester Lions is particularly pleased to support the excellent Dorset Echo Christmas Toy Appeal for children in the area."

Debbie Hellaby, Dorset Echo promotions manager, said: "We're incredibly grateful to all those clubs, businesses and organisations that have come on board so far - the £100 donations are coming in thick and fast now, but we still need more to pledge their support to help us beat last year's total of £4,644.52.

"Christmas is only just round the corner, so the race really is on to make it a special year for the many underprivileged children in our community.

"For successful businesses £100 is a very small amount, but it will make a huge difference to a child on Christmas day.

"As a special 'thank you', firms who donate £100 will be featured in a full page article."

Now in its 19th year, the Toy Appeal raises money and collects donations to make sure less fortunate children wake up to presents on Christmas morning.

For more information contact Maureen Jolliffe on 01305 830811.

Businesses wishing to make a £100 donation should email mjolliffe@newsquest.co.uk

To find out more about Dorchester and District Lions Club visit www.lionsdorchester.org.uk