A FAMILY from Penarth is encouraging people in the town to join them in sending shoeboxes full of Christmas gifts to poor children around the globe.

Lora Payne and her son, Scott Thomas, are carrying on the family tradition to help young people learn that there are people less fortunate than themselves.

Operation Christmas child is one of the worlds largest children's Christmas projects and each child receives a shoebox as a non-conditional gift of love regardless of their background or religion.

Last year 900,008 shoeboxes were lovingly packed by people all around the UK and sent to 14 different countries.

This year they are aiming to collect over 1 million boxes to send to needy children around the world.

She said: "I used to do it with my parents and grandparents and now having a child myself it is important for him to learn that there are other children who don't have anything.

"We are quite lucky in this country that we can afford things. Those children who have nothing would cherish even something small and it would mean the world to them.

"My son is now involved and he enjoys it. It also helps him with his writing skills.

"It is really important to think about this especially at Christmas time and it is a cause that is close to my heart."

All that is needed is it empty medium size shoe box wrapped in decorative paper and to decide whether the gift is for a girl or a boy.

The age categories are two to five years old, five to nine years old or 10-14 years old.

Some gift suggestions include toys a doll or cuddly toy, school supplies such as pens, colouring pencils, sharpener, eraser, hygiene items such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, a wrapped up bar of soap or a hairbrush, a hat, gloves, scarf, sunglasses or wind up torch.

In order for the boxes to be shipped around the world a donation of £3 per box is requested.

Ms Payne and her friend are preparing to transfer the

Trinity Methodist Church on Stanwell Road will welcome all community members to attend and bring boxes at their service on November 9.

To arrange collection or an alternative drop off point and time, call 07403901603.