AN art gallery in Weymouth is backing the Echo’s Christmas Toy Appeal.

The Cove Gallery on Trinity Street has donated £100 to help disadvantaged children have a happy Christmas.

Each year a growing number of families facing hardship call on the Toy Appeal.

Paul and Geraldine Mooney took over ownership of the gallery at the start of November having moved from Manchester.

The pair have been visiting Dorset for the last 10 years and fell in love with the area.

Mr Mooney said: “We’re doing something we’re both interested in. We are consumers of art and always find ourselves drawn to galleries.

“The majority of what we sell here has been produced by local artists.”

Mr Mooney added: “We try to cater for everyone in terms of price. Everyone will be able to find something they can walk out with.”

The pair decided to get involved with the Toy Appeal after being involved with charity work in the past.

Mr Mooney added: “We’ve always supported charities around Christmas time. Last year we volunteered on Christmas Day to serve Christmas dinners to care leavers.

“A letter was sent to the gallery about getting involved with the Toy Appeal.

“It’s for local disadvantaged children and fits in perfectly with us in terms of what we’ve been doing for charity. We would support it again in the future and we think It’s for a fabulous cause.”

Dorset Echo promotions manager Debbie Hellaby said: “We appreciate that this time of year is a challenge for every family, as each year we have an increasing number of applications made to the appeal for toys.

“We urge those who can to donate a new gift to one of our collection bins. We particularly struggle to source baby toys and gifts for children age 13-16 years but will welcome any donations.

“Without the support of our readers and local businesses we would not be able to help put smiles on all those families’ faces at Christmas, so a big ‘thank you’ in advance of your help.”

Readers are reminded we are unable to accept second-hand, used or soft toys.

For more information about the Echo Toy Appeal contact Maureen Jolliffe on 01305 830811.

Businesses wishing to make a £100 donation should email mjolliffe@newsquest.co.uk