Operation Rudolph brings comfort to those who struggle at Christmas.

Christmas should be a special and joyful time of the year when we get to spend treasured time with our loved ones, eat until we almost pop, and have fun with our children and grandchildren.

But for some of us, Christmas is little more than an endurance test, with a sense of relief once the decorations and bright lights are taken down.

For those of us in difficult financial circumstances, who are homeless, alone, unwell, or grieving, Christmas can amplify stress and sadness, particularly as there are images of happy faces partying or exchanging gifts everywhere we look.

Operation Rudolph is a truly wonderful organisation that supports people who are struggling at Christmas for whatever reason.

A team of volunteers provides wrapped gifts, food, and transport, along with a large dose of Christmas cheer to people in East Devon towns including Axminster, Colyton, Honiton, Ottery St Mary, Seaton, and Sidmouth.

Now in its fifth year, Operation Rudolph will be providing a free Christmas Day meal with all the trimmings, at The CUB building in Honiton and at Pebbles in Seaton.

For those without transport, volunteers kindly collect some of the guests and take them home again afterwards.

For those staying at home who are unable to afford Christmas lunch, Operation Rudolph also offers free meal boxes with a range of delicious ingredients generously donated by national food suppliers.

The Operation Rudolph team is urging people not to suffer in silence.

They say they have a large number of donated gifts ready to give to children who otherwise may go without because the family budget is so overstretched.

For those worried about how they’re going to get through Christmas, the Operation Rudolph team can be contacted on their website: www.operationrudolph.com; over the phone: 07894 810929; or over Email: support@operationrudolph.com

The work of Operation Rudolph will, I am sure, bring comfort and joy to many East Devon residents this Christmas, and I was pleased to be able to meet the team last month and support a fundraising event.

I continue to be inspired and touched by their kindness.