The King's School in Grantham opens toy bank in town centre location for those who need it

A Grantham school has relaunched its annual toy bank in a new town centre location.

The King's School has once again organised a toy bank to provide free toys and gift for those who need them.

Since starting eight years ago, over 11,000 items have been donated to children by the initiative.

This year, the toys can be collected from unit 24 in the George Centre, which was officially opened yesterday afternoon by the Mayor of Grantham, Councillor Mark Whittington.

People can visit the unit and collect five toys per child (two small, two medium and one large) as well as a stuffed animal and book.

The King’s pupils have already collected a stock of toys to give out to people, but donations can still be dropped off at Rocket Exhibition Services, Price and Son Family Funeral Directors, Grantham Prep School and Gonerby Hill Foot Primary School.

The schoolboys thanked everyone in the community who had so far donated toys and other items, as well as the venues that provided drop-off points

Tashan Mpundu, head boy at King’s, is part of the team that organised this year’s toy bank.

He said: “At a time when people are struggling more than ever it is more important than ever that disadvantaged kids get some festive cheer this holiday.

“I would ask those that can afford it to give to this amazing initiative.”

Councillor Whittington, who is a former King’s pupil, cut the ribbon to open the toy bank.

He gave his appreciation to South Kesteven District Councillor Tim Harrison, who acted as the link to allow the unit to be used by the toy bank.

Coun Whittington added: “It is great to see this generation of King’s school boys doing great work in the community.”

The toy bank will also be open on December 6 and 13 between 1pm and 3.30pm for people to come and collect some toys.

In order to collect from the toy bank, people must show proof that they are in receipt of child benefit, which can be done through showing a statement or bank statement which shows the benefit payment.

Donations can still be made, with the pupils asking for old toys (in good condition), old games consoles, board games, books, puzzles, cuddly toys and figurines, arts and crafts sets, dressing up costumes, wrapping paper and sellotape.