MARGARET Tucker from Crediton has now sent more than 250 filled Christmas boxes to needy children and families in Moldova.

Margaret was last week able to send the last load of boxes to the collection point in Exmouth courtesy of transport from Biffo and Jan Holland.

The boxes were taken to Hugh Scudder, of Christian Response to Eastern Europe, who has been supporting the poor in Moldova, for more than 30 years.

Mr Scudder expressed his sincere thanks for all the support the people in Crediton and district have given, and says the boxes are now all eagerly awaiting the large lorry, when it arrives next week.

The boxes are handed out at a Christmas Soup Kitchen and Party for children.

Others are taken to grandparents and other children who couldn’t get to the party, perhaps because they live in the outlying villages.

Margaret explained that the children are always really excited to receive a gift, adding that it is usually the only gift they will have at Christmas, so it is really special.

Margaret said: "I would like to say a very big thank you to everyone who has helped, from giving me empty shoe boxes, toiletries, gifts, toys, and school items, and to the Crediton Lions and Sheila Job’s Knit Wits group, which knitted dozens of teddy bears.

"Also to those who gave donations, others who filled shoe boxes as well, the ladies at Redvers House, Brenda Fowler at Cheriton Fitzpaine, Mrs Fone and Friend, Gillian Ware, and Biffo and Jan, who brought along nine more boxes.

"Also all the ladies who knitted lovely warm hats and mittens, plus others who knitted more toys, warm colourful blankets and scarves, and those who knitted children’s small jumpers, and to the staff at Refurnish, who always help. All the boxes will be loaded in the lorry this week."

Margaret confirmed that more than 250 boxes had been sent this year, including two large family boxes which also included food.

She said that one box was for a family with nine children, five of their own and four from another family member who they look after, who all live in just two rooms.

Margaret added: "The father, who normally works in Portugal, has had to return due to the Coronavirus, and there is very little work to be had in Moldova, where it is now very, very cold."

She added: "If anyone wants leaflets about the work in Moldova, please let me know.

"However, Hugh will also be sending me an update after Christmas."

Margaret concluded by saying that she hopes everyone saves their empty shoe boxes ready for next year.