New collection point for Christmas Toy Appeal

The appeal, now in its fourth year, aims to bring a little festive joy to children who might not otherwise enjoy the type of Christmas most youngsters take for granted.

We're collecting toys and gifts for five different organisations which work with children and teenagers across the county.

The Movement Centre in Oswestry, which helps children with cerebral palsy, Telford Young Carers which provides support for youngsters who care for loved ones, The Harry Johnson Trust for children being treated for cancer, and Hope House children's hospice will all receive a share of your gifts, along with the children's ward at Shrewsbury and Telford hospital trust.

From this week people can hand in toys at our new office at 2 Bellstone, on the corner of Shoplatch, as well as our head office in Waterloo Road, Ketley, Telford, and Storage King in Archers Way, Battlefield, Shrewsbury. There is also a collection point at the Falcon Hotel in Bridgnorth, which is also raising funds to provide toys.

Charlton School in Apley Avenue, Wellington is also collecting toys to support the appeal, which is backed by Telford boxing champion Richie Woodhall.

We are asking our generous band of readers to donate brand new toys, games, books, CDs, toiletries and other gift suitable for children and teenagers.

Shropshire Star editor Martin Wright said the Christmas Toy Appeal was one of the highlights of the year for the newspaper.

"Every year we are overwhelmed by the generosity of our readers," he said.

"Many of the children the appeal helps show tremendous courage and maturity beyond their years.

"It is wonderful to see how an event like this can make such a difference."

Chloe Edmunds of Storage King said: "The toy appeal has been a huge success since it started in 2015, and we're delighted to be involved once more.

"As a company, we believe it is important to give something back to the community in which we operate, and it is wonderful to be able to help in this way."