A SOCIETY has made a generous donation to our Christmas toy appeal in memory of their late deputy chairman, who died in May.

The Society of Dorset Men, which promotes good fellowship among its members, has donated £100 to the 21st Dorset Echo Christmas Toy Appeal, a cause they have been supporting for more than eight years.

Andrew Prowse, a former police officer and the late deputy chairman of the society, passed away suddenly while taking a short walk near his home in Southill, Weymouth, in May.

This year, the society have made their donation to the toy appeal in honour of him. All of the money will be spent on buying toys for underprivileged children who would otherwise go without on Christmas Day.

Hayne Russel, secretary of the society said: "Andy Prowse always looked after the charitable side of the society so, this year, we are donating in his memory and we will continue to donate every year.

"It definitely means more to us to donate this year with Andy passing away and with the all the challenges that have been created by the pandemic.

"We are pleased to continue to support the toy appeal."

Last year, readers and businesses donated an incredible £4,933.05, smashing the previous year's total of £3,428.99, and we only have a few days left to try and beat that again.

Donations will be gratefully accepted until December 4 to ensure that toys can be purchased and distributed in time for the big day.

Debbie Hellaby, brand, marketing and compliance manager at the Dorset Echo, said: "We appreciate that this time of the year is a challenge for every family and this year following the pandemic and with the arrival of the new normal it is even more so.

"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 in advance of your help thank you."

If you are a business wishing to make a £100 donation, or an individual wishing to donate, please call Maureen on 01305 830811, email maureen.jolliffe@dorsetecho.co.uk, or you can write to us at Fleet House, Hampshire Road, Granby Industrial Estate, Weymouth, DT4 9XD.