Sidmouth Rotary has launched an appeal to give some Christmas cheer to those in need in the Sid Valley. 

The club will be working with Sid Valley Food Bank and other organisations to provide a hamper of festive treats and a few children’s presents for families struggling with the cost of living. Elderly people on low incomes will also receive a hamper. 

Local residents are being invited to help by donating money, children’s gifts or items for the hampers. 

Donations can be made through the Rotary club website, which also contains lists of suggested hamper items and presents for children. 

Gifts and treats can be dropped off between now and Sunday, December 18 at various shops in the town centre, including Fields, Potburys, The Works and Hospice at Home. Fields have decorated a shop window to advertise the appeal and their staff have chosen it as their charity for the winter. Other local businesses have already donated to the appeal. 

Members of the Rotary Club will be in the town centre on Friday, December 2 between 4pm and 7pm and Saturday, December 3 between 10am and 2pm to take donations of presents or hamper items. 

A Rotary Club spokesman said: “This year will be a challenging time for many as the rising cost of living impacts an increasing number of people in the Sid Valley. 

“In times of need, people demonstrate how much they want to help others, particularly at Christmas time. Through our Sid Valley Christmas Appeal we want to help those in most need, including families, single parent families, the elderly and families from the Ukraine. 

“By working in partnership, we can achieve so much more. The Sid Valley food bank do a fantastic job week in and week out - and this Christmas we are working with them to help provide presents for needy children and any top-up hamper items. 

“However, there are many people who do not go to the food bank but still need help. Rotary are working with East Devon Council, local schools and the community to ensure families in need have the simple comfort of a hamper of goods and children’s presents this Christmas.” 

Anyone who is struggling with the cost of Christmas, or who knows someone in need, can contact - in confidence - Mike Goodman at mggoodman9@aol.com