CHARITY organisers have praised the generosity of Wyre Forest people as boxes of gifts for orphans and the destitute of Romania continue to roll in "thick and fast" in response to an appeal.

The Shuttle/Times & News has become one of the focal points for gathering support for the Sunshine Appeal set up in memory of road accident victim Sarah Hampton, 20, of Titton, Stourport.

The appeal has so far raised about £6,200.

It will help provide eye tests and spectacles and other equipment to a clinic being set up in Romania by Sarah's parents and colleagues at the optician's practice where she was a director until her tragic death in May.

Co-ordinator Ian Robinson, of Hamptons The Opticians, of Bromsgrove, said: "We are getting a tremendous response. Gift boxes are coming in thick and fast and it looks like we will be able to send over a full load in an articulated lorry."

Meanwhile, Sarah's father Mike said he would make a second visit with other opticians to the Caminul Felix orphanage centre in October.

He plans to install equipment and fulfil a promise to test more than 100 orphans and elderly people whom the team were unable to see during the first visit in August.

Further fund-raising events are planned at home including a fun-week and disco at Stourport Manor Hotel, Hartlebury Road, Stourport in November.

Gift boxes that cannot be delivered to Hamptons at Crown Close, Bromsgrove, can be brought to our offices in Blackwell Street, Kidderminster, and High Street, Stourport. They should contain non-perishable foods, toiletries, soft toys and clothing for children.

Further information is available at Hamptons on 01527 577350.