PARENTS are being urged to “detox their toy box” in aid of and donate toys and games to a Dovercourt charity shop.

Barnardo’s in High Street is calling for both pre-loved and unused toys and games in the run up to Christmas as residents search for presents.

Andy Burr, of area business manager for the Dovercourt Barnardo’s shop, said: “We sell a lot of toys and games at this time of the year and are really grateful for the generous donations from local people.

“It’s amazing what people unearth when they start looking in the back of cupboard and at the bottom of the toy box - it’s a good excuse to have a clear out at home.”

All profits raised from the sale of toys at the Dovercourt store will be used to help support vulnerable children, young people and families across Essex.

Mr Burr said unused toiletries are popular gifts for teenagers and in Barnardo’s shops.

lothing and accessory donations that the charity welcome all year round.