HALSTEAD churchgoers donated 75 shoeboxes to Operation Christmas Child.

Tracey Bennett and Rachel Morris were at the helm of St Andrew’s collection this year which eclipsed last year’s total.

Tracey and Rachel said they were overwhelmed by the generosity and sheer number of donations.

The majority of the donations came from churchgoers and schools in the area. 

Rachel said: “We are really pleased with how it went.

“I have been doing shoeboxes for 20 or so years personally, but this is the first time I have led the collection so it was great that it went so well.

“I have actually already started collecting for next year, I tend to pick up bits and bobs throughout the year so come November I am all ready.”

This year Rachel dropped off the shoeboxes to the drop-off point and admitted the whole situation was rather heartwarming.

She said: “Going to the packing office and seeing all the volunteers and presents is a very moving experience.

“You can imagine the children’s faces and you know how far our small donation goes.

“The little things really do go along way, and taking part in this really does get you in the Christmas spirit and it is nice to know you have made a difference to somebody.”

The St Andrew’s donation was shipped to Bulgaria this year.

Visit www.samaritans-purse. org.uk/what-we-do/operationchristmas-child for more on the scheme.