A GARDEN centre has donated a more than 100 toy reindeers to spread some festive cheer for children spending this Christmas in hospital.

Haskins Garden Centre in Ferndown gave the toy reindeers to the University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity for its ‘Elf Dash’ event which took place at Branksome Dene Beach earlier this month.

All proceeds from the event will provide support for many of UHD’s important charity projects, including the purchase of Christmas presents for patients who will be spending the festive season in hospital.

Marc Etheridge, assistant general manager of Haskins Ferndown, said: “Our Ferndown centre is closely connected to the local community, and it brings myself and the team immense pride that we have been able to build on our strong relationship with University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity to bring some festive magic to the children’s ward this Christmas.”

Hayley Harris, corporate fundraiser for the UHD charity, added: “This generous donation of plush toys was used as part of our Christmas Elf Dash event to help raise funds for the priority projects across our hospitals this Christmas. This includes supporting our children’s services, as well as ensuring all our patients with us on Christmas Day receive a present.”

In total, Haskins has donated 300 cuddly toys to charities across the south this year.