NEW College students have been busy fundraising and collecting items to donate to a national charity campaign.

The students have been taking part in the Operation Christmas Child project. The idea behind the scheme is to send gift-filled shoe boxes to less fortunate children all around the world.

The gifts include small toys, school and learning supplies, sweets and other suitable small gifts.

The students have been collecting the items for several weeks from family, friends and fundraising events. Local stores and traders have also provided support and sponsorship in the form of gifts, shoeboxes and donations to cover the £2 postage per box.

Course teacher Beryl Walker said: "All the students agree with me, its been hard work but the thought of putting a smile on a child's face makes it all worthwhile."