SCOUTS, Guides and Brownies from groups in Christchurch helped the Mayor of Christchurch to distribute his goodwill parcels to people around the borough.

Parcels of foodstuffs or plants and chocolates were handed out to 76 people by the youngsters and Mayor, Cllr John Lofts, thanks to the generosity of local businesses and groups who donated money or goods to the Mayor’s Goodwill Fund.

And £395 has been raised from the businesses and community groups to date.

The lucky recipients were nominated by local charities, churches, doctors’ surgeries and social services.

The mayor said: “I am proud that, through the mayor’s goodwill fund, we are able to offer a gesture to hopefully bring a little comfort to some of those who are facing difficulties at this time of year.

“To all those who donated money and goods to the fund, I would like to thank you for your generosity. I would also like to thank the Guides and Brownies from the 4th Christchurch company as well as the Mudeford Sea Scouts, Somerford Scouts, Town Scouts and Christchurch Explorer Scouts for helping us to deliver the parcels.”