Banff Spotty Bag Shop 'determined' to continue support for Giving Tree toy appeal ahead of festive period
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THE Banff Spotty Bag Shop say they are 'determined' to continue supporting the local Giving Tree Christmas Toy Appeal for the tenth year running.
The shop has supported the appeal since 2012 and has seen it grow year on year while also contributing a large number of toys themselves.
Having supported it since 2012, shop owner Des Cheyne says it is more important now more than ever that generous shoppers continue to donate.
"It's really grown year on year," Des said.
"But especially recently with people starting to really feel the squeeze on their income but we've also seen the generosity of our customers increasing year on year as well.
"We've always had a philosophy that no child should wake up on Christmas morning with no parcels to open and that we can do our bit here to help that.
"There have been some years where storage facilities have actually become a problem purely because it's been such a success. That's a really good sign though.
"Even during hard times it shows that there is still generosity out there and folk want to do their bit for local children which is pleasing."
Shoppers can drop off toys or clothes at the shop as the appeal gets into full swing.
And, while Des says he recognises things are getting tougher he adds that donating is a rewarding experience.
"I realise things are getting tougher but donating this year might prove even more rewarding knowing there's more kids out there that could go without and that's something we don't want to see," he added.
"We'll continue to do our bit and try and bring Christmas cheer to as much children as we can.
"It's pleasing to know that every Christmas morning we've made a contribution to children who have been able to open parcels on Christmas morning."
