RESIDENTS are being invited to donate Christmas gifts at leisure centres across BCP.

The gifts will then be distributed to Dorset families under the care of Julia’s House Children’s Hospices or sold in Julia’s House shops in time for the festive season.

Collections are taking place across all BH Live Active centres between Monday, December 2 and Sunday, December 15.

Participating centres include Littledown, Stokewood, Pelhams, Sir David English Sports Centre, BH Live Active, Corfe Mullen and BH Live Active, Queen’s Park.

Welcome gifts include vouchers, sensory items, books, pamper items, fidget toys, soft toys, board games, or card games.

Monetary donations will be also accepted on the Julia’s House website.

On behalf of BH Live, Rob Cunningham, director of leisure and business development, said: “It is a privilege to continue our support of the great work Julia’s House does through this special gift drive.

"We encourage customers to donate whatever they can to bring some festive joy to children and their families across the region – who are facing some of the toughest times. Our teams unanimously agreed to support this incredible cause - we hope that we can bring lots of smiles to children’s faces this winter.”

Katie Thompson, Julia’s House business and community fundraiser, said: “We’re hugely grateful to BH Live and their customers for their continued support for Julia’s House and generosity throughout the year.

"As a charity, we rely on donations to provide our critical and compassionate care for the most seriously ill children in our local community.

“At Christmas time especially, we want to help bring light, laughter and comfort to the families we support. Each special donation made will help to sprinkle a little extra Christmas magic this year – thank you."