THE SALVATION Army’s Christmas toy appeal is in full swing, with people across Wiltshire donating toys to help needy children in the county.

The appeal was launched last week, and toys are already coming in to drop-off points across West Wiltshire.

Captain Kelvin Lang of the Trowbridge Salvation Army was on hand in Bradford on Avon’s Sainsbury’s on Wednesday to help staff there collect toys and prepare the store’s Christmas appeal display.

He said: “There are a few toys in there already, so it’s a really good start, but I am sure it will pick up even further the closer we get to the cut-off point on December 14, and once payday comes around. People have already been really generous, and I’m sure we’ll get even more donations.”

“Sainsbury’s are quite encouraged by it, and everyone here seems really keen to help support the appeal. We’re very grateful for all their support.”
Captain Lang was joined by Richard Clarke from Sainsbury’s to prepare the display. Mr Clarke said: “We’ve run a few charity appeals and
we were worried people would be a bit fatigued, but the generosity on display here is quite impressive.

“There are a lot of people who are involved with the church, and that seems to inspire them to dig deep and want to get involved.”

The Salvation Army works closely with Wiltshire social services to distribute the toys among underprivileged children in the county.

Many needy families also approach the Salvation Army directly, meaning they are always under pressure to supply enough gifts.

The Sainsbury’s stores in Bradford on Avon and Melksham are both taking part as drop-off points this year, along with the Tesco Extra in Trowbridge.
Presents can also be dropped off at the Wiltshire Times office at 15 Duke Street. Any toys donated need to be unopened and in their original packaging, and all items received will go to children in and around the Trowbridge area.