Summer, 8, walks to buy toys and gifts to help others
A GIRL moved by an annual toy appeal in Bridgend completed a sponsored walk raising almost £300 to buy gifts for others.
Summer Banks, from Coytrahen, was so moved by the annual Co-op, Bridge FM and Parc Prison and young offenders institute appeal that she decided to act.
The eight-year-old completed a sponsored walk raising £290 which she spent on toys and gifts for others.
Summer’s dad David Banks said: “Summer heard about the appeal and wanted to donate toys to children who may otherwise not have received one.
“Knowing that there are children in the area who will now receive a gift has made her very happy and, as for me, I am so proud it is unbelievable.”
More than 1,000 toys and gifts were donated by the community in the 12th annual appeal, which will go to families struggling to make ends meet during the festive period.
Bridge FM presenter Lee Jukes, who helped to deliver the gifts, said: “A massive thanks to everyone who donated to our appeal and helped to make a local child smile this Christmas.
“It has been another great success. The generosity of our listeners and the community is amazing.
“We collected hundreds of presents at local Co-op food stores and had lots of fun getting out and about to local charities, good causes and organisations to deliver them.
“Most of us take Christmas for granted and the aim of the toy appeal is to help local children and families who are in need at this time of the year.”
The gifts were wrapped in the HMP and YOI Parc workshops and distributed by local charities and organisations including Women’s Aid, The Wallich and the Salvation Army.
Area manager for the Co-op, where gifts could be dropped off, Giles Jenkins said: “As a community retailer we were delighted to once again support this appeal.
“It is heart-warming that so many people remember to think of others at this time of year, the gifts will help to spread the magic of Christmas to those less fortunate and who are in need, and we would like to say ‘thank-you’ to our customers, members and the wider community for all of their kindness, generosity and support – they have made a real difference to a local child in their community this Christmas.”