Shoebox appeal is a runaway success

WITH love . . . Mr Lomas and Mr Thorne with Thornham St James School pupils and their gifts

ROTARIANS and schoolchildren joined forces to bring Christmas cheer to deprived youngsters.

The Rotary Club of Crompton and Royton linked with three local schools to provide presents for children in eastern Europe via the Rotary’s shoeboxes scheme.

Crompton and Royton’s international chairman Andrew Thorne said: “The generosity of the children of Thornham St James School; Firbank School, Royton; and East Crompton St James School has been wonderful. Between them they have filled more than 350 shoeboxes.

“It has been a pleasure to go to the schools and meet the children and staff.

“We have met some lovely young people.”

“The boxes will be on the way to eastern Europe within the next few days and will provide a great deal of pleasure over Christmas.

“To the children and staff of all three schools, we must say a heartfelt thank you.”