Generous businesses and passengers at Bournemouth Airport have donated more than a thousand presents – including 800 soft toy bears – to a Christmas appeal.
Five hundred bears, alone, came from TUI Airways with World Duty Free providing a further 300 after cash donations by passengers.
Bournemouth Airport employees, as well as staff and pupils at nearby Parkfield School, also donated presents for the Wave 105 Mission Christmas Cash for Kids appeal.
Samantha Tanner, the appeal’s Charity Manager, said: “I can’t thank everyone enough for their generosity.
“The presents will be wrapped and then distributed to underprivileged children across the region.
“We could not do this without the generosity of businesses and individuals and we’re incredibly grateful to Bournemouth Airport, TUI Airways, World Duty Free and all the people who have helped.”
Steve Gill, Bournemouth Airport’s Managing Director, said he was proud of how staff, passengers and businesses had rallied to such a worthy cause.
He added: “Our collective efforts mean that many children will be enjoying a happier Christmas this year. My thanks to everyone for such a great effort.”
Last year more than 72,000 presents were distributed to children across the South as a result of the Wave 105 Mission Christmas Cash for Kids appeal.
Organisers are hoping to exceed that number in 2018.
Susan Kimber, of TUI Airways, said: “Cash for Kids is a fantastic charity and we are really proud to be supporting with Mission Christmas.
“It’s so important that less fortunate children can have a special Christmas, which is why our Bournemouth base has donated 500 bears as gifts.
“TUI Airways is committed to supporting local communities and our local teams will continue to back amazing causes like Mission Christmas.”