Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has begun its Pre-Loved Toy Scheme for the eighth year. Donations will be accepted from Monday 2 November until Friday 4 December.

The council collected four tonnes of toys last year. Special containers are located at five Household Recycling Centres across the borough and at Seven Towers Leisure Centre in Ballymena.

Mayor Thomas Gordon said the scheme helps families that may struggle over the festive period and reduces landfill waste. He noted the council was the first in Northern Ireland to launch such an initiative.

Isobel Kerr from charity partner Habitat for Humanity said the scheme makes Christmas more affordable for families on low incomes. The charity operates ReStore, which will distribute donated items.

Residents can donate children's bicycles, small slides, games, jigsaws, dolls, books and other plastic or wooden toys in good working order.

Drop-off locations include various recycling centres across the borough. Opening hours vary by site, with most open 9am-5pm on weekdays and Saturdays, and some open until 7pm on Thursdays and Fridays.

For more information, contact the council or phone 0300 124 5000.