Thirty years on, Caithness toy appeal is ‘needed more than ever’
Community radio station Caithness FM has launched its 30th annual toy appeal, with gifts being sought for underprivileged children across the county.
More than 400 youngsters benefited from the generosity of local people who supported last year’s appeal and the station is again asking the public to donate items such as toys, books, toiletries, pyjamas or anything that a child from newborn to 18 could use.
Caithness FM’s company secretary Jackie Johnson said: “Once again Caithness FM is asking for your help to make sure no child in Caithness will go without a present from Santa this year.
“The appeal is 30 years old this year. As unbelievable as that sounds, the sad thing is that the appeal is needed even more today than it was 30 years ago.
“We are so proud to be part of a community that continues to support those less well off, especially in recent years when things have been hard for us all.
“So, for the 30th year in a row, we ask you once again to contribute just one new, unwrapped gift. It can be suitable for a newborn right up to 18 years old.”
Collection points in Thurso are the Original Factory Shop, Serendipity, the Royal British Legion, Semichem, North Coast Visitor Centre, Tesco, Bank of Scotland and Duncan & Todd.
Wick collection points are Tesco, Argos, Morag's Cafe and Bank of Scotland, as well as Lybster shop and the Seaview Hotel in John O'Groats.
Donations can also be made at the Caithness FM studio in Neil Gunn Drive, Thurso, any evening after 6pm.
Caithness FM can be heard on 106.5 and at caithnessfm.co.uk
Those wishing to apply to the appeal for help can tune in to Caithness FM or check the station’s Facebook page where details of how to apply, using its dedicated Elf Line, will be available in the next few weeks.
For more information on the appeal, email office@caithnessfm.co.uk
In August this year, Caithness FM held an open day to celebrate the major refurbishment of its base.
The building has been redecorated and modernised and the broadcasting studio has been refurbished with a new digital desk. Lord Thurso cut a ribbon to officially open the new-look studio.
