WE need your help to make this year’s Gazette & Herald festive toy appeal a success and to bring a smile to needy children’s faces by ensuring they have presents to open on Christmas Day.
The first gifts have been dropped off at our collection points, but we need more .
Gifts will be sorted and wrapped by volunteers from the Chippenham Salvation Army and distributed according to families in need as identified by social services.
In Chippenham, toys can be left at Elite Fashions, on Station Hill, a dress shop specialising in ball gowns and prom dresses, as well as formal suit hire.
The shop is owned by Paul and Dai Baker, who have been doing business in Chippenham for nearly ten years and have supported the Gazette’s toy appeal for the past five years.
Mr Baker said: “Last year we had a huge amount – they had to bring a truck down to pick it up.
“At the moment we’ve had a few toys and games and we’re going to contribute a big bag of stuffed toys too.
“It’s a good charity to support local kids. I’ve got a grandson or granddaughter on the way in January so it’s more of a motivation again.
“Christmas is about children and seeing them on Christmas Day opening their presents. It’s sad that some people even in this day and age are still struggling to meet their bills. But on the brighter side of things there are charities that do help. No child should go without on Christmas Day.”
Toys can also be dropped off at the Salvation Army in Foghamshire, Chippenham, which runs a Friday coffee morning from 10am-11.30am.
They can also be left at estate agents Henry George in Kingsbury Street, Marlbor-ough; Michael Thomas Butchers, at 32 High Street, Corsham; the information point at Calne Town Council; Winkworth estate agents in Devizes; Superdrug in Chipp-enham and Devizes; Wilkinson’s, Chippenham; and the Gazette’s office at 15 Duke Street, Trowbridge.
We are looking for toys across all ages, from puzzles to books and gift sets. Please do not wrap toys, but bring them in a box or bag.
Call the Salvation Army on (01249) 655458.
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