‘Tidy the toy box’ for Barnardo’s

Parents and children in Melksham are being urged to ‘tidy the toy box’ in the approach to Christmas.

Barnardo’s is inviting people to donate their pre-loved toys and games to raise as much money as possible for vulnerable children and young people across the UK.

The charity’s store in Verbena Court, behind the Water Meadow restaurant, is keen to receive good-quality toys, puzzles, board games and video games, as well as CDs and DVDs.

Barnardo’s manager Helen West said, “This is the perfect time of year for people to check their cupboards, bookshelves and toy boxes to see if there’s anything which their children no longer want or use.

“With Christmas approaching, they can clear some extra room for the latest presents while knowing that we will find a new home for their children’s former favourites.

“It’s also a great way for families to teach their children about the importance of recycling and helping others less fortunate than themselves.”

The Barnardo’s store is open Monday-Saturday from 9am-5pm. The team welcome donations of good-quality clothes, toys, games, homeware and accessories, as well as offers of help from potential volunteers. Call (01225) 436806.

Last year the charity supported 272,000 children, young people and families through more than a thousand services across the UK. Visit www.barnardos .org.uk