A PUBLICAN is urging people to spread some Christmas cheer by filling shoeboxes with gifts.

These boxes will be sent from The Pickhurst in West Wickham to children across the world as part of Operation Christmas Child, which is organised by the Samaritan’s Purse charity.

The aim behind the present drive is to send a message of hope to children during the festive season. Gifts in the boxes should be suitable for children aged two to 14.

The Pickhurst’s general manager Dan Ward said: “Operation Christmas child is a fantastic campaign which gives the giver, as well as the receiver, a lot of pleasure. “Choosing gifts for the children is the perfect activity to kick off the festive season and capture some real Christmas spirit.”

Completed boxes must be dropped off at the pub in Pickhurst Lane before November 18 to allow time for transportation.

Go to operationchristmaschild.org.uk for details on how and what to pack.