A BUSINESS has been praised for its support of a Swap and Donate Shop event, which aims to give residents across the borough the chance to exchange unwanted Christmas gifts, or donate things for others to buy.

When Redditch councillor Gemma Monaco started the appeal for donations she was approached by local businessman Tony Hateley from Kensi Hope Interiors on Hewell Road who offered his shop as a drop-off point for donations.

Within days of the event being announced the shop was already filling up with toys, books, and games.

Speaking as she collected the first tranche of items, cllr Monaco said: “I was pleasantly surprised to see so many donations had been received. People have been very generous.”

“I am very grateful to Mr Hateley for allowing us to use his shop as a donation point. It’s a very generous and community-spirited thing to do in the best traditions of our town.”

The Swap and Donate Shop is being held at Batchley Community Centre on Saturday, February 16 from noon until 3pm.

Donations of toys, baby items, books and more can be left at Kensi Hope Interiors during working hours.

Unfortunately, child car seats and foodstuffs cannot be accepted.

Any money raised is being donated to the Charlotte and Craig Saving Hearts Foundation.