People across Wiltshire are getting behind our Christmas Toy Appeal, which aims to make sure children who might otherwise miss out on presents have a gift on Christmas morning.

We have teamed up with the Salvation Army in Chippenham to help put the sparkle into Christmas for families who are struggling to pay for gifts.

The scheme collects toys to be delivered by Salvation Army volunteers to homes. Parents can then wrap the gifts and youngsters need not know they are any different to other children.

In Devizes, estate agents Winkworth in the Market Place have started collecting toys and urge people to drop off unwrapped, new gifts.

Winkworth partner Claire Markwell said: “We are happy to be part of the appeal. It is an excellent way for youngsters, who might otherwise miss out, to have the joy of opening a present on Christmas morning. We hope as many people as possible will pop in with a gift when they are passing.”

The town’s branch of Wilkinson’s is also acting as a drop-off point and assistant manager Chris Simons said: “It’s a great local appeal to get involved with and we are happy to do our bit.”

Margaret Boyd, corps assistant at the Salvation Army in Foghamshire, Chippenham, said: “We get a great sense of fulfilment helping make Christmas special for families.”

This year the Salvation Army is emphasising the need for suitable gifts for secondary school pupils, particularly those aged between 14 and 17, but toys can be for any age.

The appeal will run throughout November and into December.

Drop-off points include: 

  • Michael Thomas and Son Butchers, at The Triangle in Malmesbury
  • Sainsbury’s, Chippenham
  • Morrisons, Devizes and Marlborough
  • Sainsbury’s, Devizes
  • Winkworth, Devizes
  • Wilkinson’s, Devizes
  • Tesco, Marlborough 
  • Henry George estate agents, Marlborough
  • Donations can also be left at the Gazette’s offices at 15 Duke Street, Trowbridge