A Christmas gift drive is set to help children and rough sleepers.

Worcester Business Improvement District (BID) and Worcester Cathedral have teamed up to launch the 'Under the Tree' gift drive.

The initiative aims to bring joy to children and provide essential items for rough sleepers.

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The campaign will run until Monday, December 16.

The gift drive is a collaborative effort with Kinship and Maggs Day Centre, two charities that support vulnerable children and adults in Worcester.

Sam McCarthy, CEO of Worcester BID, said: "Every year thousands come to view the sparkling trees within the Cathedral cloisters bringing delight to visitors, however for many Christmas isn’t full of joy with eyes lighting up on Christmas morning.

"This year think about how we as a community can change what’s under the tree for many this year."

He added: "Instead of Secret Santa with your colleagues, why not be a Secret Santa for a child in need who would be over the moon to receive a gift this Christmas or to support someone who has found themselves in a troubled position of rough sleeping, bring them warmth and essentials to help their day to day lives."

Donations for children will be distributed to those facing challenging circumstances, such as those in care or emergency housing.

Maggs Day Centre will distribute donated items to rough sleepers to help provide warmth during the winter.

Businesses are encouraged to organise a donation drive instead of traditional gift exchanges or office Secret Santa activities.

There are several donation points across Worcester where contributions can be dropped off.

These include Worcester Cathedral (8 College Yard), Barclays Bank (54 High Street), The Studio (9 Trinity Street), and Howden Insurance (gifts donated here will go to Cash for Kids) for children's gifts, and The Cardinal's Hat (31 Friar Street) and Maggs (59-60 The Tything) for gifts for rough sleepers.

Suggested donations include toys, books, and games for children, and warm clothing, blankets, toiletries, and non-perishable food for rough sleepers.

For more information about the charities involved, visit www.kinshipcarersuk.com and www.maggsdaycentre.co.uk.