CHILDREN’S charity Barnardo’s Scotland is urging householders across Dumbarton and the Vale to clear out their toy shelves in preparation for Christmas – and help less fortunate families in the process.

The charity’s store in Alexandria needs donations of toys and games, as well as unwanted gifts, to support local children, young people and families.

As well as pre-loved quality toys, the charity is also keen to receive donations of unused toys, games and presents, which often prove popular in the run up to Christmas when customers are looking for presents at reasonable prices.

Karen Macintyre, area business manager, told the Reporter: “We sell a lot of toys and games at this time of the year and are really grateful for the generous donations from local people.

“It’s amazing what people unearth when they start looking in the back of cupboard and at the bottom of the toy box – it’s a good excuse to have a clear out at home.

“We’d like to thank all of our customers and donors for their continued support, which really does make a difference to so many local children’s lives.”