THE Gazette & Herald is once again joining forces with the Salvation Army for the annual Christmas Toy Appeal to provide a happy Christmas to children in Wiltshire.

People are being encouraged to start thinking about donating toys and gifts suitable for children to drop-off points around the county, so that children in need can enjoy the festive season.

Donations should be new, but unwrapped, although donations of wrapping paper are also welcomed so that families can wrap the presents themselves and give their presents a personal touch.

Major Dawn McGarvey, corps officer at the Salvation Army in Foghamshire, Chippenham, said: “We collect toys and food for families in our local area who are recommended by Social Services and the children’s centre and there are families who wouldn’t normally receive much at Christmas.

“Last year we did around 90 food hampers and each of those families would have had one child or more so we needed toys for around 200 children.

“We are normally short of things for three-year-olds and plus and for teenagers and toys will need to have the age certificate on them for the younger years. Things like footballs are really good for our teenagers while we also accept vouchers too and we can go out and buy toys suitable.”

The appeal will run throughout November and into December with Wilkos and Clever Minds in Borough Parade already confirming their status as drop-off points. Donations can also be dropped off at the Wiltshire Gazette and Wiltshire Times offices at 15 Duke Street, Trowbridge.

Despite being overwhelmed with support every year, the Salvation Army says it may face an increased demand this year due to the amount of food parcels it is already sending out.

Mrs McGarvey added: “It is difficult to know how many we will be making up this year as we have not had the full listings from social services yet but we have already seen double the number of people needing food parcels a month from the food bank. I’ve also heard that those applying for Universal Credit before Christmas won’t get it until after Christmas, so we’re expecting a few late additions to our list.”

Anyone who wants more information about the Salvation Army’s toy appeal or to volunteer their services in the run-up to Christmas, can call the Salvation Army office on 01249 655458.