A message from Catherine Tromans at St James' Church:It’s the time of year again when Samaritans Purse launch their Operation Christmas Child where we fill shoe boxes with gifts for underprivileged children around the world. As in previous years we shall be supporting this initiative as a church and this year we (St James) are being a “drop off” point for the local community.

There are various ways that you can support this appeal including physically filling a shoebox with toys and gifts for a child in need, filling a virtual shoebox online, and praying for the children who will be the recipients.

The national collection week is 11th-18th November, so all shoeboxes will need to be received by 18th November, although virtual shoeboxes can be donated online until 24th December.

Leaflets will soon be available and please take an extra few to share locally, shoeboxes are also available for a donation of 50p. Thank you, Catherine.