Some toys are shiny. Some toys are brand new. All toys have stories!
At Essex Toy Cave in Colchester, there is a box filled with toys that have been on adventures for decades. They've survived family holidays, bedroom floors, garden expeditions and the occasional dog attack.
They've been loved, lost, rediscovered and, in some cases, are missing an arm, a wheel or an accessory that disappeared sometime around 1997.
On Saturday 27th June, Essex Toy Cave owner Joe Tye wants to help 100 of these well-travelled toys find a new home.
Inspired by the message at the heart of Toy Story, Buzz's Big Beater Giveaway will see the first 100 children through the door receive a free pre-loved toy to take home and continue its story.
"Every toy here was once someone's favourite," said Joe. "A child carried it everywhere, slept with it, took it on adventures and couldn't imagine life without it. Then, as children do, they grew up."
"Inspired by Toy Story, one of my favourite animated film franchises, I wanted to give these toys one more chance to be somebody's favourite."
The giveaway focuses on what collectors affectionately call 'beaters' – toys that show signs of a life well lived. They might be missing a hand, have a few battle scars, or look a little rough around the edges, but they still have plenty of play left in them.
Behind the fun lies a serious message.
Millions of toys are discarded every year, despite many still being perfectly playable. Industry research suggests that around 80% of toys ultimately end up in landfill, incineration or the environment, while the vast majority are made primarily from plastic.
Joe hopes the giveaway encourages families to think differently.
"Children don't always need the latest toy. Sometimes the best toy is one that's already had a few adventures."
"And let's be honest, if a toy has survived forty years in someone's loft, it's probably built to last."
Families are invited to visit Essex Toy Cave between 10am and 3pm on Saturday 27th June, where the first 100 children will be able to choose a free toy and give it a brand-new chapter.\
(Note that most toys are for ages 5+ and contain small parts, although there will be a selection of teddies also available)
Because every Buzz Lightyear, Action Man, Barbie, Ninja Turtle and battered old teddy deserves the chance to hear those magical words one more time:
'You're my favourite toy.'
Buzz's Big Beater Giveaway
Essex Toy Cave, Brook Street, Colchester, CO1 2UZ
Saturday 27th June 2026
10am–3pm
Free toy for the first 100 children
