Lakeside shopping centre's first charity Big Toy Box appeal is to be launched on Thursday by celebrities Tamara Beckwith and Stacey Young.

They will each donate a childhood toy to the Barnado's appeal and Chris Hanvey, UK director of operations, will also assist in the launch.

Tamara Beckwith - one of the celebrities launching the Big Toy Box appeal at Lakeside

During the two-week event, parents and children can hand new or nearly new toys into the Big Lakeside Toy Box.

All toys will be checked at the drop-in area, at the Brompton Walk customer information desk, to ensure they are in good condition.

Then they will be sent for distribution to Barnardo's retail stores and projects in and around the region.

Mr Hanvey said: "Barnardo's is honoured and delighted to be the chosen charity for the Big Lakeside Toy Box Appeal."

A Lakeside spokesman said: "The complex has chosen to work with Barnardo's because it is a national charity with close Essex links."

Published Tuesday, January 7, 2003

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