THE staff at a Droitwich opticians are encouraging the community to get into the festive spirit a little ahead of schedule in aid of international relief charity, Operation Christmas Child.

Staff at Specsavers in St Andrews Square are appealing for people to donate Christmas gifts for Operation Christmas Child.

The store will then pack the items up into shoeboxes, before the charity sends them onto children in need around the world.

"It’s the tenth year that we’ve supported the cause,’ says store director Emma Singh. "We are always overwhelmed with the generosity of local people and hope that this year proves no different. It’s great to be able to give something back to those less fortunate than ourselves."

The collection will run until Friday November 17 and the store is asking for individual items, such as toys, hygiene items or school supplies, or complete shoeboxes clearly marked for a boy or girl.

To participate and find out how to pack your shoebox, visit www.samaritans-purse.org.uk/what-we-do/operation-christmas-child/how-to-pack-a-shoebox/

To drop off donations, or for more information, visit the store at 10 St Andrews Square, Droitwich, Worcestershire, WR9 8HE, call 01905 790 660, or visit www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/droitwich