TWO shoebox appeals are operating in Okehampton in the run-up to Christmas, and volunteers are being sought to help in the campaign to provide some festive cheer for men, women and children living in poverty in Bulgaria.

The Samaritan's Purse Appeal and the Trussell Trust's Christmas Box Appeal are both collecting items which will be sent to Europe.

Chrissie Taylor, of the Trussell Trust's appeal, has visited Bulgaria and seen for herself the poverty faced by many children — and adults.

'They literally had no shoes, and this was in temperatures below zero — it's difficult to believe this could be happening now, in Europe,' said Chrissie.

Packing sessions for the Samaritan's appeal will take place at Fairplace Church on Thursday, November 1, with afternoon and evening sessions.

Trussell Trust's appeal packing will be held on Tuesday, November 13 in the church hall, between 11am and 3pm.

Any volunteers who can spare a little time to help with either session will be warmly welcomed.

Items are still being collected to fill the boxes. These can include toiletries, such as soap, shampoo, toothpaste, wet wipes, combs and razors, new clothes, ranging from socks and hats to underwear or babygrows, stationery, small toys, sweets or chocolate, small household tools, sewing kits or candles.

Any donations will be gratefully received and can be taken to OK Leisure in Okehampton during the day, or the Conservative Club during the evening.