Bristol Zoo Garden backing for Post's toy campaign

Bristol Zoo Gardens has got behind the Evening Post Christmas Toy Appeal by donating an animal cuddly toy from the zoo's gift shop.

Readers are urged to bring children's new or nearly new toys or money to our Temple Way offices where staff will collect them for distribution to youngsters who are likely to get few gifts this year.

We are asking you all to show your generosity in these hard financial times by buying an extra toy, book, teddy, or other kid's gift this year to help with the appeal. The gifts can be for children up to the age of 16.

And rather than throwing things away, you can give baby toys, educational books and games to the cause. People can also donate money to help.

The appeal is running alongside the Lord Mayor's Children Appeal, which raises funds for the families of underprivileged youngsters in the area.

Up to 1,600 families within the city will get two £15 vouchers – one for food and one for clothes or toys, which can be spent at Asda, Co-op branches, and at Debenhams.

Bristol Zoo Gardens' director, Dr Jo Gipps, said: "Our shop is full of fantastic toys and we are more than happy to donate a gift in support of the Evening Post's Christmas Toy Appeal. I urge other individuals and organisations to get behind this fantastic campaign and help children all over Bristol have a brilliant Christmas."

Last year our readers donated about 250 toys, which included dozens of cuddly toys, a bike, a guitar, and much more.

Cheques for the appeal should be made out to the Lord Mayor's Children Appeal and sent c/o the Lord Mayor at the Mansion House, Clifton Down, Bristol BS8 3LJ.

Gifts can be delivered to the Evening Post reception in Temple Way, or The Entertainer toy and gift shop, in Cabot Circus.