IT'S all systems go for this year's shoebox appeal now organiser Bob James has been given a warehouse to store the thousands of boxes expected to pour in for needy children.

The warehouse has been loaned to the Samaritans Purse charity until after Christmas by the Co-op store based in Davies Road on the Four Pool Estate in Evesham.

Mr James said: "We are very grateful to the Co-op. The warehouse is huge so we should have plenty of room."

Now, he says, he needs more helpers to check and pack the shoeboxes filled with gifts, and to help load them onto the lorries destined for Eastern European countries.

Mr James said: "We hope as many kind-hearted Vale folk as possible will join our happy band of volunteers. They only need to give a few hours a week in the run up to Christmas."

He said there was also another very important appeal on the go. Mr James said: "We need Barbie doll clothes. A firm has very kindly donated 25 dolls but they are all naked!"

The warehouse opening times are from 10pm to 4pm and 6.30pm to 9.30pm on Mondays to Fridays, and 10am to 2pm on Saturdays.

Prospective volunteers can just turn up, or contact Bob James on 07980 187909 for more information.

Kind hearted folk filling boxes this year can get their labels from the Journal offices in Evesham's High Street.

l A fundraising tabletop sale for Samaritans Purse shoebox appeal is to take place on Saturday from 2pm to 4pm at Little Comberton Village Hall.