This year's Operation Christmas Child appeal has resulted in 2,327 shoe boxes containing toys and other gifts being sent to Serbia from the South Norfolk area.

This year's Operation Christmas Child appeal has resulted in 2,327 shoe boxes containing toys and other gifts being sent to Serbia from the South Norfolk area.

Co-ordinator Shirley Adams, who collected many of the boxes at her Hethersett home, has been quick to praise all those who have worked hard to bring some joy this Christmas to children thousands of miles away.

“When it comes to thanking everybody I find it difficult to know where to begin. Our team of helpers is getting bigger and spreading wider which is wonderful. We have schools, churches, associations and work places all taking part and we have individuals who drop off shoeboxes every year and then there are the kind people who send in donations and shops who display our leaflets.

“Above all we have our helpers. Our knitters make hats, mittens, teddies, badges and dolls' clothes and others collect, sort and deliver the boxes ready for their transport,” Shirley said.

The boxes will be hand delivered by volunteers to children in the poorer areas of Serbia.

“For many this will be their first ever present. December is the time to think of these children. It would be so lovely to see their smiles and hear their laughter when they open the shoe boxes and see the gifts that have been so lovingly packed,” Shirley added.

Shirley is already turning her attention to this year's appeal.

“This year we ran out of hats and mittens. We would be very happy if anyone could help with the knitting or supplying wool next year,” she added.

Volunteers can contact Shirley on 01603 810323.