A NEWLY-LAUNCHED transport company is teaming up with a local food bank to give needy children some presents this Christmas in what is set to be the ‘busiest’ toy appeal ever.

Browns Vehicle Hire will work with West Dunbartonshire Community Foodshare (WDCF) to deliver much-needed gifts as part of its annual Christmas Toy Appeal.

Last year, WDCF were able to provide 720 children locally with between eight and 10 Christmas presents each, and this year they are aiming to reach at least 1,000 young people.

Now, with the support of Browns Vehicle Hire – who will discreetly and personally deliver toy donations directly to local families in need – WDCF they will be able to reach more kids than ever.

Commenting on this year's toy donation drive, Clair Coyle head of WDCF said: “We are anticipating over 1000 child referrals this year for families who have no other means of providing gifts for their children on Christmas morning.

“Teaming up with Julie and the Browns Vehicle Hire Team really helps us to deliver the most amount of presents we can for the families that need our support, this year more than ever.”

Julie Brown started up Clydebank venture Browns Vehicle Hire in November after finding success with campervan hire business Staycation Scotland - launched in May 2020 at the height of the Covid pandemic.

And Julie admits as soon as she heard how many families needed help she just had to offer her vans as delivery options.

She said: “As a local mum, it is truly heartbreaking that as a result of the cost-of-living crisis, more and more local families just cannot afford to give their kids toys this Christmas, and many are struggling to stay on top of their normal bills and outgoings without the added financial burden of the festive period.

“The WDCF is an amazing charity and is something both my sons have fundraised for at their schools, so we are honestly delighted to be able to support with the logistics and deliveries in the run-up to Christmas day.”

Donations can be dropped off at Unit 21, Leven Valley Enterprise Centre, Castlehill, Dumbarton, G82 5BN, Monday to Friday between 9am and 4pm.