Westside Radio Launches Annual Christmas Toy Appeal
Collecting presents for children at local hospitals
A previous Westside Radio toy appeal delivering toys to children
November 5, 2026
Westside Radio has launched its eighth annual Christmas Toy Appeal, calling on residents, businesses, schools and community groups across West London to help bring festive cheer to children spending Christmas in hospital and those supported by local charities. The Hanwell-based community radio station is once again collecting brand-new toys to be distributed to young people across the region in the run-up to Christmas.
This year's appeal will support children at Hillingdon Hospital, Northwick Park Hospital and West Middlesex Hospital, as well as a range of children's charities and youth centres serving families during the festive season. Now in its eighth year, the campaign has become a well-established community initiative, bringing together listeners, local businesses and organisations to make Christmas brighter for children facing difficult circumstances.
Gos, presenter of Westside Radio's Weekend Get Up show, has been involved with the appeal since it began in 2018 and said it continues to make a meaningful difference to children and families. He described the appeal as a cause that "brings real joy to children spending Christmas in hospital" and highlighted the community spirit shown by donors each year.
Reflecting on the campaign's growth over the years, he said the generosity of listeners, businesses and supporters has been remarkable, with donations regularly filling the station. He added that being able to personally deliver gifts to hospitals and charities and meet the children, families and staff involved is one of the most rewarding aspects of the appeal.
The initiative is being supported by organisations including Global Academy and Chiswick School, with Westside Radio encouraging individuals, schools, community groups and businesses to take part by donating toys, organising collections or helping raise awareness. All donated toys must be brand new and unwrapped. Donations will be accepted until Friday 11 December 2026 to allow time for gifts to be sorted and distributed before Christmas.
Anyone wishing to support the appeal can contact Westside Radio via toyappeal@thisiswestside.com or by calling 0208 574 4113. Further information is available at www.thisiswestside.com and through the station's Instagram account, @thisiswestside.
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