DORSET’S residents, businesses, clubs and organisations are set to make a big difference to the lives of underprivileged children this Christmas.

The Dorset Echo Christmas Toy Appeal celebrates a milestone 20th anniversary this year and, as ever, we are calling on you to give a little something to help the children who may have little to look forward to at Christmas.

Dorset Echo editor Diarmuid MacDonagh said: “We appreciate that this time of year is a challenge for every family and many have little to spare.

“But even the tiniest amount can help us to reach out goal of helping every child in need.

“This year is particularly special as the appeal marks its 20th anniversary. We’re hoping, with the support of our readers and local businesses, that we can beat last year’s total and help to put smiles on struggling families’ faces this Christmas.”

Lighthouse Windows and Shutters, based in Chickerell, has kicked off our appeal by donating £200 to help us buy gifts for youngsters.

Michelle Sherratt, who operates the business with husband Mark and son Elliott, said: “Years ago I worked for a local solicitors in the family department and it became all too realistic that many children are placed in foster care or adopted.

“I always wished for those children to go on to a better life and be happy in their new homes. It had a massive effect on me personally, and is something I will always remember.

“I have been trying to be organised this year, buying gifts for all our relatives and their children. This is something that perhaps we take for granted, our children are fortunate enough to receive gifts and we know this isn’t the case for everyone.

“Children of different circumstances and less fortunate than our own deserve a great Christmas too. It should be a magical time of year for everyone.” Last year, generous readers and businesses raised a record-breaking grand total of £4,782.97, and we need your help again to beat this target.

You can help by buying one extra present to go in a Dorset Echo Toy Appeal bin. All the toys collected will be distributed before Christmas.

We are also looking for businesses to donate £100, which will be used to buy gifts and vouchers.

Here are a few Toy Appeal suggestions: n 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 - toiletries or perfume gift sets, gift vouchers, beauty sets, arts and crafts items.

Readers are reminded we are unable to accept second-hand, used or soft toys.

To donate, visit dorsetecho.co.uk/toyappeal Businesses wishing to make a £100 donation should email mjolliffe@newsquest.co.uk