The Isle of Wight Radio Christmas Toy Appeal is back for 2025 — once again aiming to spread festive cheer to thousands of children across the Island who might otherwise go without a gift this Christmas.
Running from Monday 10th November to Sunday 7th December, the appeal collects new toys for children aged one to 14, with donations distributed through local charities, social services and schools to ensure every child on the Isle of Wight wakes up to a present this Christmas morning.
Supported once again by lead sponsors Red Funnel, the appeal has helped more than 3,000 children every year. Since it began over a decade ago, Islanders have donated more than 40,000 toys and gifts.
John: The response has always been incredible
Claire John, Managing Director at Isle of Wight Radio, said,
“The team at Isle of Wight Radio is proud to be running the Christmas Toy Appeal for another year.
“The response from the Island’s community has always been incredible, and it’s amazing to see the individuals and businesses come together to make such a difference.
“We’re hugely grateful to Red Funnel who are once again sponsoring the appeal and have given huge support to the event for several years now.”
Those who benefit from the appeal include young carers, children in hospital, bereaved youngsters, and those affected by poverty or housing difficulties.
Official toy drop-off points
- Isle of Wight Radio
- Tesco, Ryde
- Tesco, Freshwater
- Waitrose, East Cowes
- Morrisons, Newport
- The Entertainer, Newport
- Asda, Newport
- Red Funnel (Red Jet Terminal, Cowes)
- Red Funnel (East Cowes Terminal)
- Pocket Full of Pebbles, Cowes
- Home Bargains, Newport
- Poundland, Ryde, Shanklin and Newport
Collins: A huge thank you to everyone who supports this worthy cause
Fran Collins, Chief Executive Officer at Red Funnel, said,
“2025 marks our fifth year partnering with the Isle of Wight Toy Appeal, and it’s something we are really proud to support.
“We’ve seen thousands of toys dropped off to our donation points at our terminals by our team, customers and the local community – and look forward to seeing them fill up again this year.
“Every toy goes to a child who is less fortunate – whether through a local charity, social services, or even a school that reaches out.
“The goal is simple: no child on the Island should go without a present this Christmas. We’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who supports this worthy cause.”
Islanders can also fundraise to support the appeal – by hosting a Christmas jumper day, a school mufti day, or any other festive fundraiser.
Every effort counts, and Isle of Wight Radio would love to give supporters a shout-out on air!
How to get involved
- Donate a new, unwrapped toy (for ages 1–14) to the value of £10 at any of the official drop-off points.
- Host a fundraiser at your school, workplace or community group.
- Spread the word using the hashtag #IOWToyAppeal on social media.
- For more information, visit the website.
News shared by Dom on behalf of Isle of Wight Radio. Ed
