Organisers for a charity supporting needy families during the festive period are asking Islanders to give generously to those less fortunate.

The Care 4 Christmas on Sheppey appeal, which has been going for more than 20 years, is asking for donations of money, food, gifts and the help of volunteers.

The support and services it provides range from putting children’s gifts under trees to helping parents pay for energy bills.

Free Christmas lunches are also held on December 25 and Boxing Day at the Community Church in Broadway, Sheerness.

One of the organisers, Betty Boswell, said 69 hampers were given out last year, and on Christmas Day 17 people turned out for lunch, along with 13 volunteers. On Boxing Day, 23 guests and 12 volunteers had a buffet and spent the day together.

She said: "Christmas is here once again, but some people will not be looking forward to it, having faced difficulties during the year through no fault of their own.

"Care 4 Christmas aims to bring joy to families in these unfortunate circumstances by giving them food, gifts for children and helping with gas and electricity top-ups.

"We rely on donations of food, presents, money and gift vouchers so we can continue to provide this service to local people.

"We also need volunteers to help us out either during the week before or on Christmas Day or Boxing Day."

Preparations for this year’s appeal will start on Monday and the church hall will be open from 10am to 4pm to take in donations and see people who are experiencing difficulties.

Volunteers will also be making up food hampers and wrapping gifts.

On Christmas Day and Boxing Day, the church will be open during the same times for anyone who would like lunch and some company – lifts can be organised for those who do not have transport.

To volunteer, make a donation or to request help from Care 4 Christmas, contact Carol Wraight on 07871 058443, Liz Roberts on 07733 358541, or Marie Piper on 07927 614944.