PARENTS and children across the Black Country are being urged to ‘tidy the toy box’ in the run-up to Christmas.

Barnardo’s is inviting people to donate their pre-loved toys and games to raise as much money as possible for vulnerable children and young people across the UK.

The charity, which is run from its base in Great Cornbow, Halesowen, is keen to receive good-quality toys, puzzles, board games and video games, as well as CDs, DVDs and books.

To find out the location of your nearest Barnardo’s shop, or to donate online, visit www.barnardos.org.uk.

A spokesman for the charity said: “This is the perfect time of the year for people to check their cupboards, bookshelves and toy boxes to see if there’s anything which their children no longer want or use.

“With Christmas approaching, they can clear some extra room for the latest presents while knowing that we will find a new home for their children’s former favourites.

“It’s also a great way for families to teach their children about the importance of recycling and helping others less fortunate than themselves.”

Last year Barnardo’s supported 272,000 children, young people and families through more than a thousand services across the country.