A CHARITY is appealing to people to show goodwill over the festive period by donating Christmas gifts.

The Salvation Army in Barrow is to launch its Christmas Gift Appeal for 2018 and is urging the community to perform an "act of kindness" for children, young people, families and the elderly who may be alone over the holiday period.

Working from its base in Abbey Road, the charity has worked with church and other authorities to provide gifts for less privileged members of the community for more than 20 years.

Captain Martin Davison, leader of the Salvation Army in Barrow said the charity was trying to bring joy and cheer into the lives of families who are finding life a challenge for another year.

He said: "We are indebted to the kindness of this community for the way they respond to our appeal each year.

"Folk understand how difficult Christmas can be for those with limited budgets to provide the special time many of us enjoy and often take for granted.

"Each year we see people from all walks of life responding to our appeal, from very young children bringing items bought with their pocket money to the most senior citizens who remember how special a time of year this can be in making memories that can last forever."

The appeal launches next week The Salvation Army foyer café in Abbey road is the central dropping off point for gifts.

Gifts can be left with partners in the appeal including Nationwide Building society, Conlons Opticians in Dalton Road, and at The Mail reception desk in Abbey road.

Captain Martin added: "We want to say thanks in advance to all the people who make this project work so well, without this goodwill we could not make this really worthwhile community act of kindness and care become a reality.

"We are grateful for all the agencies who work with us in this project.

"Without their contacts and willingness to deliver the presents we could not reach so many people who really need support."

The charity said gifts can be delivered unwrapped as they need to be matched appropriately to the age and needs of the recipient and high street gift vouchers would also be welcome for teenagers who are too old for toys but still would like to be included in the time of sharing.

Gifts can be donated until 2pm on Christmas Eve. For more information call Barrow's Salvation Army on 01229 433550.