Neighbours and visitors to The Fleming Arms in Wide Lane, Swaythling are being encouraged to head to their local and donate unwanted toys to children who need them during December. 

It's one of 235 pubs nationwide where pub chain Hungry Horse have set up donation stations for the third year in a row.

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The scheme, which saw more than 10,000 presents donated in 2022, is designed to provide gifts to those in need while helping parents declutter their homes by putting preloved toys to good use.

Other Hungry Horse pubs in the Daily Echo area, including The Vine Inn at Ower, Shamblehurst Barn at Hedge End, The New Clock Inn at Fair Oak and the Seagull at Fareham, are also taking part in the scheme. 

The Fleming Arms, which boasts cheap family favourite eats like all day breakfast, beer and burger and fish and chips, a beer garden and sports coverage, has already gathered dozens of great gifts and is looking for more. 

Sarah Williams told the Daily Echo: "We believe that every child deserves the joy of a Christmas present, and Hungry Horse is proud to continue its 'Toy Boxing Day' scheme for the third year running.

“Our aim is to help those feeling the pinch amid the cost of living crisis, while giving parents the opportunity to declutter their homes and make a difference at the same time. Together, we can ensure that no child goes without a gift this festive season and spread the true spirit of Christmas throughout our communities.”

To raise awareness of the scheme, Hungry Horse unveiled a 450kg sack of presents to represent the estimated two million children who could go without a present this Christmas.

The donation points are open until Monday December 18.

Pubs will then supply the donated toys to local charities, which will provide them to those in need within the community during the lead up to Christmas.