CHRISTMAS is a special time for many of us – and none more so than children.
But times are hard – a cost of living crisis means household budgets are being stretched to the limit.
Your New Blackmore Vale magazine wants to help – and we’re calling on businesses to join us in helping those in need enjoy a fantastic festive period.

Today we are unveiling our Secret Santa Present Appeal, which will provide toys for young people going through a tough time.
The idea is that each year, we often waste £5 or £10 on a secret Santa gift for a colleague that is later discarded.
Our appeal asks that instead of that throwaway gift you buy a present for a young person to the same value.
It could be a toy, or a teddy bear, a doll or a stationery set – anything you think a young person would enjoy unwrapping on Christmas morning.

And your gifts will be going to a good home, as we have teamed up with Dorset County Hospital to provide presents for young people being cared for this Christmas and beyond.
“We are very grateful to the New Blackmore Vale magazine for launching their Secret Santa Present Appeal on behalf of Dorset County Hospital,” a hospital spokesperson said.
All gifts to the hospital at are very much appreciated, and particularly by the Kingfisher Children’s Ward as it means the staff can make Christmas that little bit extra special for children treated over the Christmas period.”
And it doesn’t end there – we are also keen to hear from other groups who could help us provide some support for families this Christmas.

So if you are a business owner who wants to take part in our Secret Santa Present Appeal, simply drop us a line to newsdesk@blackmorevale.net.
We are also on the lookout for premises that could be used as drop-off points for donations across the Vale. If you can help, again email newsdesk@blackmorevale.net for more information.