The shoebox appeal is in support of Operation Christmas Child – an initiative ran by Samaritan’s Purse, an international relief and development organisation.

The appeal encourages people to donate a shoebox filled with gifts for children who may not receive any presents this Christmas. Members of the public can fill a box with gifts for children in three age groups – 2 to 4; 5 to 9 or 10 to 14. Age group stickers to decorate and label the shoeboxes can be collected from the Horsefair’s information room on the bus station.

Boxes could include toys such as a teddy bear, ball or jigsaw; an educational item, for example a colouring book or pens; and hygiene items like a toothbrush or a comb. Other items can include scarves, hats or sunglasses. In addition, a donation of £3.00 payable by cash or cheque will need to be enclosed to help cover the cost of distribution. Boxes must not include chocolate, food or homemade toys.

Centre Manager of the Horsefair, Kevin Smith, commented: “The support we receive each year for the shoebox appeal is always overwhelming – people are so generous! Last year over 70 boxes were donated. It’s a fantastic cause to support and I’m sure opening the boxes makes such a difference to the children receiving them”.

Shoeboxes can be dropped off from 1 November until 18 November at the Horsefair’s information point or the Oasis book shop on Norfolk Street. For more information collect a leaflet with suggestions, gift guidelines and donation envelopes from the Horsefair’s information point.

The Horsefair is a drop off point for the Samaritan’s Purse Christmas shoe box appeal.