Communities, community organisations, local businesses and charities are invited to donate new toys and gifts to the 35th Southampton toy appeal until Sunday (Dec 17) and help spread festive cheer to vulnerable children and young people.

The donations of new toys and gifts will be distributed to children and young people aged 0-18 years who are supported by Southampton’s Children’s Services, as well as a number of families experiencing severe financial difficulties.

A number of toy and gift drop-off points are available In the city including Westquay Shopping Centre, the Civic Centre, selected libraries and others.

Cllr Alex Winning, cabinet member for children and learning said: “Christmas is an important time of year where people come together to share the festive season but for some children, young people and their families, this can be a difficult time and knowing that someone is thinking of them, that they aren’t forgotten, really makes a difference. Buying an extra gift and popping it into one of the drop-off points around the city can make a child or young person’s day special.

"Our city has a huge heart. Our people are kind, our communities welcoming, our businesses and charities generous; its why when the annual Christmas toy appeal is launched, we come together to donate new toys and gifts to children and young people in need. No child or young person should be forgotten.”

For a list of drop off points and suggested gifts see the council’s press release.

Photo: Pictured left to right: Colin McPherson (Toy Appeal), Cllr Satvir Kaur (Leader of Southampton City Council), Laura Read (General Manager of Westquay Shopping Centre) and Cllr Alex Winning (Cabinet Member for Children and Learning)