Hampshire & Isle of Wight Police Donate Over 1,500 Gifts in Christmas Toy Appeal 2025

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary officers and staff have once again shown their festive generosity by donating more than 1,500 presents to children in need as part of the 2025 Christmas Toy Appeal.

The gifts were collected at the Constabulary’s training headquarters in Netley, where Chief Constable Alexis Boon met with representatives from Southampton City Council to hand over the presents for distribution.

Chief Constable Boon said:
“Christmas should be a wonderful day filled with family, friends and joy. However, for many the festive season shines a light on all the things they are not so lucky to have. This time of year can be more difficult for those less fortunate than most, as they witness others celebrating with family and friends. Christmas is a time of giving, and that is exactly what our annual appeal exemplifies. Each gift means a child will now have something special to unwrap on Christmas morning. The incredible generosity of our officers and staff will once again brighten the lives of everyone this amazing campaign benefits. Thank you to everyone who donated.”

Councillor Amanda Barnes Andrews, Cabinet Member for Children and Learning at Southampton City Council, added:
“Thank you to all the police officers and staff members at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary for their wonderful Christmas generosity. At Southampton City Council, one of our main priorities is to support those in need, and this amazing collection of gifts will help us do just that, at a time of year which can be difficult for some. We will ensure these wonderful gifts are distributed to bring the magic of Christmas to children and young people across the city.”

The Christmas Toy Appeal is an annual initiative by the Constabulary, aiming to ensure that children who might otherwise go without a present can enjoy a festive surprise at Christmas.