Shuttle Gift Appeal: 2500 presents donated to vulnerable children

Now in its 19th year, the appeal with Home-Start Wyre Forest asked members of the community to buy a gift for local children whose families are facing difficulties.

The appeal has received an overwhelming number of gifts from local groups, businesses and individuals, with thousands of presents coming in.

New presents for children aged 0-18 years were collected and then delivered to families receiving support from Home-Start Wyre Forest, before several carloads were distributed to local schools, where staff ensured they were given to families where they will help the most.

Home-start Wyre Forest thanked those who acted as drop-off points for gifts this year, including The Swan Centre, Midcounties Cooperative, Tesco, Wild Violet, Franche Community Church and Bewdley Methodist Church.

Companies and groups supporting the appeal included Dunelm, Signal Traffic Management, Beakbane, Pines Golf Club, Astley Cross Pub, St Mary`s Church Harvington, and North Worcestershire Police Cadets.

Home-Start Wyre Forest manager Belinda Darby said: "The rise in the cost of living has not impacted on the generosity of those who have supported the appeal, which will ensure that the families we support have a less pressured and more enjoyable time over Christmas.

"Thank you to every individual who bought a gift for a local child. You have done something truly wonderful for a family who now know they are not alone this Christmas. Our community is thinking of them, whatever difficulties they may be going through.

Shuttle editor Stephanie Preece said: "Once again we are blown away with the level of support the appeal has received and the kindness shown by our readers.

"It's a challenging time for many households and we are so grateful for all your donations this year.

"The gifts will help bring smiles to the faces of many youngsters.

"We would like to say a huge thank you to those who donated and wish you all a very Merry Christmas”.