CAN your business boost the Daily Echo Christmas Toy Appeal?

That’s the question we’re asking traders, company bosses and staff members as the countdown to the festive season begins.

Each year, we aim to ensure that no Dorset child goes without a toy under their tree on Christmas morning.

And our readers turn social workers, charity helpers and kind-hearted volunteers into Father Christmas by donating thousands of gifts that are then wrapped and distributed before the big day.

Now in its 18th year, the appeal has been supported by many thriving Dorset businesses keen to give something back.

But for the first time, we’re reaching out to all the traders, CEOs, project managers and employees in the area to get involved with the appeal.

We are hoping to collect toys and gifts for new-born babies, children and teenagers that will be wrapped at the Daily Echo officers in Poole and Bournemouth before being distributed.

No gift is too small – or too big – and each will make a huge difference to youngsters who may otherwise have nothing to open on Christmas morning.

This year’s gifts will be given out through the social services, children’s centres, Salvation Army and charity groups to those in need.

Around 100 presents will also be given to children forced to stay in hospital in Christmas Day through the Amelia-Grace Rainbow Fund.

Presents are now being collected at the Echo offices in Richmond Hill and the Dolphin Centre.

If you can help, please get in touch by calling Gayle McDonald on 01202 411301.