THE annual Shuttle Christmas Gift Appeal has officially launched, giving readers the opportunity to bring some seasonal joy to families in need across Wyre Forest.

For the 14th year running, The Shuttle has teamed up with local family support charity Home-Start Wyre Forest to deliver gifts to children aged 0-18 who are currently receiving its support.

Home-Start staff and volunteers will be collecting gifts from pick-up points across the district from today (Thursday, November 15) until the deadline on Sunday, December 16.

Last year's appeal saw a record number of donations from our readers, with a staggering 805 gifts delivered to children across the district.

Home-Start manager Belinda Darby said: "Every year we are amazed at the quality and quantity of the gifts donated to the appeal and the thought people have clearly put in to their donations.

"We are astounded by the generosity of people in the Wyre Forest and I hope those who donate this year realise how much their gifts will mean to the families we support.

"It is such a pressured time of year for everyone, but for families with the added pressures of isolation, depression, past trauma or illness, it can be a very challenging time.

"To receive an anonymous gift, with nothing required in return, can ease the pressure and make the season a little more enjoyable – but more importantly it`s sending out the message that someone cares about them and their family at a very vulnerable time in their lives.

"It is a privilege to be involved with the appeal year on year. ”

Drop off points this year include the Swan Centre management suite in Kidderminster, Midcounties' Co-op outlets in Kidderminster, Bewdley and Stourport, Tesco Superstore in Castle Road, and Home-Start offices across the district.

The Shuttle Christmas Gift Appeal has been running since 1995, when it was called the Christmas Tree Appeal, and has been lighting up the faces of children across the region ever since.

Home-Start Wyre Forest offers befriending and practical help in the home to families who are experiencing additional stress.

For more information on this year’s Gift Appeal or to get involved, contact Home-Start on 01562 825896, or call The Shuttle on 01384 358262.