A WEYMOUTH charity has got into the Christmas spirit with a kind donation to the Toy Appeal.

The Pilgrim House trust raises money for many local charities and has backed the appeal run by the Dorset Echo for many years.

The Toy Appeal, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, ensures underprivileged children living in Dorset won't go without a gift on Christmas Day.

Andrew Prowse, chairman of the Pilgrim House Trust, said: "Pilgrim House is pleased to support the Toy Appeal again this year.

"Pilgrim House is a community asset run by a board of trustees. It is the home of Weymouth Rotary Club.

"Weymouth BID are based here as are the local branch of SSAFA, and several local charities Including Weymouth Town Charities and the Veterans Hub use it for their meetings.

The trust, based in Hope Street, provides a network of services which include information, advice, surgeries and support for various organisations which, themselves, offer services to the community.

A major highlight for the trust last year was the introduction of 'race nights'.

Mr Prowse continued: "A race night can raise as much as £1,000 or more. Because they are hosted at Pilgrim House, the proceeds go back into the local community

"In conjunction with Gravy Boat Catering ,Pilgrim House offers full facilities for functions everything from wakes to weddings and that perennial favourite bingo nights."

Last year’s Toy Appeal saw readers and businesses raise a grand total of £3,428.99 and we need your help again to beat this target.

All it takes is a one-off donation of £100 to make a big difference to children facing poverty - but time is quickly running out.

Dorset Echo promotions manager Debbie Hellaby said: “Without the support of our readers and businesses we would not be able to help put smiles on all those families’ faces at Christmas, so a big ‘thank you’ in advance for your help.”

To find out more about the Dorset Echo Christmas Toy Appeal visit dorsetecho.co.uk/toyappeal

If your business would like to make a £100 donation, please email mjolliffe@newsquest.co.uk