A SMALL group of volunteers collecting all year round on behalf of Operation Christmas Child is getting ready to fill shoeboxes with gifts, educational essentials and sweets to be distributed to children in war torn countries in central Asia, Europe and Africa.

As well as packing their own boxes they have contributions from individuals, families, nurseries and schools and other organisations wishing to send a message of hope to children at Christmas time.

As well as the children’s shoeboxes they will be packing boxes for the elderly and families in these same countries.

The collection is in Dunham Village Hall (near the Axe & Cleaver) 10am to 6pm - Tuesdays 3rd and 10th, Thursdays 5th and 12th and Fridays 6th and 13th November.