More boxes of festive cheer

The annual Blythswood Appeal generated 2400 boxes and £2570 in Strathearn this year.

The money will help with transport costs to send the aid to those in need in time for Christmas.

Kate Clements, organiser of the appeal in this area, told the Herald that they had received a lot more boxes than last year and she praised all the volunteers who had done a sterling job sorting and labelling shoeboxes at St Columba’s Church in Crieff prior to collection.

Mrs Clements said: “The packing and checking days were very busy, Thanks to all the volunteers; they were brilliant. Unfortunately, we were short of helpers this year so if anyone would like to consider helping out next year we would be happy to welcome them.

“We usually sort out the shoeboxes over three days but you don’t need to come for the whole day; if you can spare just a couple of hours that would be great.”

Volunteers have also had a second hand shop running in Crieff to raise the profile of the charity. The shop has been well supported by locals, raising over £3000 so far and there are plans to keep it open meantime on Tuesdays and Fridays from 10am to 4pm.

Mrs Clements declared:“The money raised at the shop so far enabled us to add a lot of extra nice things into the shoeboxes, such as clothes and toys. We are going to keep the shop going. ”

The shop welcomes donations of bric-abrac, household items, small pieces of furniture, toys, books and games but no electrical items.

The Strath shoeboxes are now making their way to Eastern Europe.