A CHARITY has received a £7,500 boost from pre-loved toys after forming a partnership with a retailer.

More than 750 bays of toys were handed in at Barnardo’s North East shops during the six-week Toy Exchange campaign ran with Argos.

Barnardo’s North East area retail business manager Tracey Brooks said: “This was a substantial boost to our stock in the run up to Christmas and the New Year.

“Donations are essential in order to keep our stores trading. All profits from selling these items are ploughed directly into Barnardo’s work with vulnerable and disadvantaged children, so a huge thank-you to everyone who has donated.”

John Walden, Argos managing director, said: “This is the first time Argos has been involved in such a partnership and we are truly delighted by the level of support our customers and colleagues have shown.”

The campaign encouraged Argos customers to donate their pre-loved toys at the charity’s stores.

The toys were then sold in the stores to raise money to benefit disadvantaged children and young people in the region.

Those making donations were given a £5 voucher off toys bought at Argos.