WORCESTER families are invited to ‘tidy their toy box’ to support a local charity shop.

The Barnardo’s children’s store in St Martin’s Quarter raises money throughout the year but especially in the months before Christmas.

However, the recent lockdown resulted in a dramatic drop in donations which threatens the success of this year’s festive fundraising campaign.

So the team are asking residents to clear their cupboards of unwanted children’s clothes, toys, puzzles, board games and picture-books.

Their appeal comes at a crucial time for the charity as it faces a shortfall of millions of pounds due to the coronavirus crisis.

Barnardo’s store manager Sarah Woodward said: “We normally gather an impressive collection of toys over the summer months ready for the busy Christmas period, which is when we raise the most money.

“However, the long period of lockdown meant we missed the opportunity to receive hundreds of bags of donations.

“Therefore we’re asking people to check their cupboards, bookshelves and toy boxes to see if there’s anything which their children no longer want or use.

“We’re keen to find a new home for their children’s former favourites. Traditional wooden toys and vintage toys are very popular, but we’re grateful for all good-quality donations.

“It’s a great way for families to teach their children about the importance of recycling and helping others less fortunate than themselves.”

Sarah added: “Our staff and volunteers wear gloves, masks and aprons and quarantine the donations in a safe and secure storage area for 48 hours, with each item date-stamped so we know exactly when it came in to the shop. After the quarantine period is over the goods are put out on the shop floor.

“Thanks to local people’s generosity, we can continue to raise much-needed funds to support the charity’s work with vulnerable children and young people across the UK.”

The Barnardo’s store is open Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 4pm and on Sundays from 10am to 4pm.

Customers are asked to wear a face covering, respect social distancing and pay by contactless where possible, with protective plastic screens at the till. Hand sanitiser is also available.