MORE than 90 shoe boxes full of goodies have been collected for Swanage United Reformed Church’s Christmas Appeal.

Last year 75 boxes were sent to needy communities, but this year 91 boxes will be distributed.

The boxes are being sent through the Blythswood Care Scheme, which has sent 1.7 million boxes to date and is celebrating its 21st anniversary this year.

Jim Farrer, Swanage United Reformed Church secretary, said: “For the past 12 months members and friends have been collecting small items in order to fill shoe boxes.

“On Saturday 17 friends gathered around tables piled high with goodies. We were joined by four girls from our guide and brownie pack and we had great support from many friends and members, as well as our toddler group.”

This year the boxes will be sent out to Pakistan, Albania, Romania, Serbia, Kosovo, Hungary and Bulgaria.

Mr Farrer said: “These small gifts should bring a smile to the faces of many around the world living very difficult lives.

“We have already started collecting for next year’s shoeboxes.”