Tesco has announced the launch of a festive toy donation drive for disadvantaged children during this year’s Christmas season.

The supermarket retailer will have toy donation collection points for new and unwrapped toys bought in store, and partner with local charities to distribute them.

Tesco head of communities Claire De Silva said: “Our stores are committed to supporting local children and their communities year-round, and thanks to the generosity of our customers and colleagues, the annual toy donation campaign is a wonderful way to make a difference at Christmas. It’s great to see stores partnering with charities local to them to ensure that every child experiences the magic of Christmas.”

Between 3 November and 15 December local charities will be selected by store colleagues to receive donations for Christmas presents for children.

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Store community champion Joanne Cooper said: “We look forward to our toy donation appeal every year. It’s such a special way to spread a little Christmas magic and bring the community together. Thanks to the amazing generosity of our customers and colleagues, we can help make sure every child connected with Pathways 4 All has a reason to smile this Christmas.”

This builds on Tesco’s donation of over 125,000 toys last year, which it aims to increase this upcoming year as part of its commitment towards sustainability.

Organisations across the UK which will receive donations include Ty Hafan Children’s Hospice, Amelia’s Rainbow, Christ the King Church and Caister Community Larder.