A POIGNANT initiative aimed at spreading some Christmas cheer to lonely people has been launched for the third year in Wyre Forest.

The Special Christmas Cards scheme is to encourage people and children to post festive greetings that could be delivered to elderly residents who live alone, in residential homes and charities.

It was started in 2015 by kind Kidderminster resident Marissa Robinson - who wanted her child to send Christmas cards to an elderly home for residents who might not even get a visit.

In 2016, more than 1,200 cards were delivered and Marissa is hoping the scheme will be just as successful this year.

Special post boxes have been placed in the Kidderminster branches of Sainsburys and Tesco.

The closing date for cards to be posted in the boxes is Saturday, December 9.

Marissa said: "After the success last year, we delivered 1,274 cards just in the Wyre Forest, so thank you to everyone again.

"This is my third year running and I am hoping to get more schools and nurseries on board to help spread the cheer - but also teach the children about how Christmas isn't just about receiving presents, but also giving and thinking of others too who find this time of year very sad.

"The gratitude from last year was amazing.

"I have also been asked by Age UK Hereford and Worcester if I can get children to make Christmas decorations - so anything like hand-decorated baubles to felt Christmas trees and stockings, to give to their patients to brighten up their Christmas trees."

Marissa is also looking for anyone who would be interested in setting up a box in their area or any shops and businesses who would host a box for donations.

Residents can find out more about the initiative at facebook.com/SpecialChristmasCards, or by emailing sendacard15@hotmail.com.