Strictly Come Dancing star Oti Mabuse and McFly’s lead guitarist Danny Jones have recreated festive photos from their childhood to rally the nation to donate to Lidl Bear’s Toy Bank in its final two weeks. The playful pictures see the duo pose with beloved toys from ‘Christmas past’ - a retro pink telephone, and a rock n’ roll miniature electric guitar.
Oti and Danny will also be donating new and unopened versions of the toys featured in the snaps, joining thousands of donors who have already gifted to the Lidl Bear’s Toy Bank. Oti said: “Initiatives like Lidl Bear’s Toy Bank really mean a lot. You never know how big an impact toys can have on a child - even if you don't know them. No matter how big or small, all donations will provide joy over Christmas - so please donate if you can.”
Danny said: “As a parent, I can‘t imagine my son not having anything to open on Christmas morning. You can’t undervalue the importance of kids playing - it only takes one small toy - in my case, a toy guitar - to inspire something bigger. It’s a hugely important campaign, and I’m privileged to be a part of it.”
The initiative was launched following new research, in partnership with Neighbourly, that found that 8 in 10 charities and community groups declared toys and games were one of their most needed items to help serve their local communities over the festive period - second only to food donations.
Customers can drop off new or unopened toys and games, purchased from any retailer, in more than 940 Lidl stores across the country, until 16 December. Donations will be gifted to children that need support in their local area, with the most sought-after items including toys, games, books and gifts.
Toys are being collected by local charities participating in Lidl’s ‘Feed it Back’ scheme, coordinated by Lidl’s community partner Neighbourly, and will then be distributed via local charities and community groups.
In addition, Lidl will also donate 1 million meals and has committed £250k to charities, community groups and food banks during the festive period.
