INDIVIDUALS, schools, churches and other organisations in Darwen are invited to join in this year's Operation Christmas Child (OCC) by sending gift-filled shoeboxes to needy children in Eastern Europe.

Last year more than 1.3 million Christmas gift boxes were distributed from donors across the UK and Ireland, with 26,000 coming from Lancashire.

The Co-operative group and eight independent co-operative societies, including Lancashire, have agreed to provide collection points for in more than 1,500 stores throughout the UK between November 5 and November 20.

Co-ordinator Ruth Jones said: "People in Lancashire were so kind last year and I am sure we can rely on their help again in another year which has, sadly, seen more conflict and natural disasters which have impacted on so many young lives."

Anyone wishing to participate should contact the helpline on 0870 011 2002.