Spreading Christmas cheer: Mid and East Antrim’s pre-loved toys scheme receives 1.9 tonnes of donations

Mayor and Mayoress of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford and Allison Minford, pictured with a Christmas tree surrounded by toy donations made by the residents of Mid and East Antrim.

Christmas generosity is already shining across Mid and East Antrim as residents rally behind the Borough’s seventh annual Pre-Loved Toys Scheme, donating nearly two tonnes of toys in just the first weeks of the initiative.

Since opening on Monday 27 October, dedicated Christmas toy containers at the Borough’s five Household Recycling Centres (HRCs) and three leisure centres have begun to fill rapidly.

To date, 1.9 tonnes of pre-loved toys have been donated — a strong start that the Council hopes will continue in the run-up to Christmas.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, praised residents for their kindness and community spirit, saying:

“A huge thank you to everyone who has already donated, you are truly helping to spread Christmas magic across our Borough! It’s incredible to see toys getting a second life and we’re off to a fantastic start, for those who are still planning a clear out — keep them coming!

“Help make this Christmas a little brighter for families who need it most.”

Christmas tree located in the Seven Towers Leisure Centre surrounded by toy donations made by the residents of Mid and East Antrim. 

Residents are encouraged to donate items such as children’s bicycles, scooters, small slides, games, jigsaws, dolls, books, soft plush toys, and other plastic or wooden toys in good working order.

Last year, the scheme collected an impressive 3.1 tonnes of toys, all redistributed through partner charities. These organisations ensured families could purchase items at low cost or receive them directly if facing significant hardship.

With continued support from the public, the Council hopes to set a new record in 2025.

This year’s scheme continues in partnership with Restore (East Belfast Mission), Habitat for Humanity ReStore (Ballymena), Larne Community Care Centre, Sure Start, Home Start, and several local primary schools — ensuring donations reach families who need them most.

For more information on how to donate, residents can email waste.helpdesk@midandeastantrim.gov.uk or call 0300 124 5000 (Option 0)