IT may only be October but two Alcester women are already wrapping Christmas presents.

Pam Boswell and Joy Foster are local organisers for Operation Christmas Child, a charity appeal which sends thousands of shoeboxes full of goodies to deprived children overseas and is co-ordinated by Samaritan's Purse.

Last year, many boxes were collected in Alcester, donated by members of churches and other organisations in the town as well as individuals.

Mrs Boswell and Mrs Foster are hoping for an even better response this year.

The idea is to take a shoebox, cover it with Christmas wrapping paper and fill with small gifts suitable for a child.

There are some restrictions, such as toy guns and other weapons, but most clean, safe items are acceptable as well as some items of clothing.

Add a donation to cover transport costs, attach the supplied label with details of whether it is intended for a girl or boy and what age group and the organisers will do the rest.

On Christmas day, the gift will be bringing a smile to a young face many miles away.

Anyone who wants to donate a box can call Mrs Boswell on 01789 762288.