Toy exchange in Newtownabbey is now open for donations

than themselves and want to give to a disadvantaged child.

According to new research,rather than see children go without toys this Christmas, 94 per cent of youngsters would happily give up some of their presents if it meant another child could enjoy a happier Christmas.

And this spirit continues with children also sharing their time, with the study revealing 82 per cent of children spend time during Christmas supporting various causes such as carol concerts and charitable donations.

Now the giving can get underway with the launch of the third annual Argos Toy Exchange in association with children’s charity Barnardo’s.

Argos customers are invited to drop off once-loved toys before November 25 in return for a £5 voucher towards the cost of new toys (minimum £35 spend), to be redeemed at Argos by December 24.

Donations can be taken to the Argos store at Abbey centre or Barnardo’s shops at Throne Retail Centre, Carnmoney or Ballyclare.

All donated toys will be taken to Barnardo’s retail outlets to raise funds for the charity.

Lynda Wilson, director Barnardo’s NI said: “After the success of the Toy Exchange over the last two years, it made sense to aim towards the next milestone to bring the total target to £2million. We believe that with the support of local children and their families, we can do it.

“Barnardo’s NI helps some of the most disadvantaged youngsters those growing up in poverty, those trying to escape abuse and those in care. Profits from the toys, when sold, will fund this work.”

For more information about the Toy Exchange visit: www.argos.co.uk/toyexchange.