CHILDREN from Okehampton Primary School have shown their Christmas spirit early this year, as part of an initiative to spread cheer to less privileged children.

More than 50 pupils each put together a shoebox full of goods for children living in Africa, Eastern Europe and Central Asia as part of Operation Christmas Child, run by Samaritan's Purse. Gifts include colouring pens and paper, hairbrushes, toothpaste, small toys and other items.

The initiative was run in conjunction with Fairplace Church and organised by the PTFA. Headteacher Hazel Fox said: 'It's the first time we have taken part in the project, and we have had a really good response from pupils.

'The children have put a lot of thought and effort into deciding what goes into these boxes and it's been a great educational tool as well.

'They've seen that something as simple as a tube of toothpaste will delight less privileged children. It is a very powerful project, and we are happy with how many pupils have become involved.'