PEOPLE across the Test Valley are being urged to take part in a scheme to provide children in need with a box of Christmas goodies.

Andover Foodbank – a charity which provides essential food for people who are struggling and have little or no money – is behind a borough- wide campaign aimed at getting people to make up festive gift boxes or donate cash for the project.

Anne Mihell from Andover Foodbank said: “Children love Christmas but not every child will have a happy Christmas this year. Some children will not have the excitement of opening presents and some families will not be able to provide gifts for children. With you help this Christmas can be special for many children in need across Test Valley.”

Annie said last year’s scheme produced 750 Christmas gift boxes that were distributed to local children via their care workers.

She added that the scheme involves key workers from local agencies and schools identify children who will benefit from receiving a Christmas gift box and they get in touch with the foodbank charity.

Items that go in the gift boxes include toys, sweets and chocolate, gloves and toothbrushes.

Anyone who would like to make a donation or provide a filled Christmas gift box is ask to call Andover Foodbank on 01264 36111. Donations will be received up to Friday, November 14.