CREDITON and District Lions will be at the Farmers’ Market in Crediton Town Square on Saturday, November 15.

Following on from their successful collection at Crediton Tesco’s store, Crediton Lions are inviting the local community to donate items for those living in Ukraine.

This time the Lions want to focus on making a difference to Ukrainian children experiencing disruption to their daily lives.

To keep them safe, children living in the war zones are frequently required to leave what they are doing at short notice and go to underground shelters for extended periods.

Lion President Ann said: “Christmas is coming and we want to show children in Ukraine that we are thinking about them.

“We want to put together some ‘grab bags’ filled with comforting activities ready for them to do while they are in shelters, such as colouring or playing Snap.

“We have bought drawstring bags and are asking local people to kindly bring donations of suitable new stationery, or other suggested items, to our stall at the Farmers’ Market, where they will be able to help us fill the bags.

“This is something everyone can help with, so involve your children as well. Together we can make a huge difference - and even a small donation will show a child that we care!”

Suggested donations include: colouring pencils, wax crayons, pencils and pens, pencil cases, colouring books (for all ages), sticker books or sticker sheets, drawing pads, notebooks, blank envelopes and cards, glue sticks, sticky tape, pencil sharpeners, erasers, rulers, stencils, picture card games eg. Snap, small soft toys, fidget toys, Lego kits or similar small toys, small packets of sweets or chocolate.

All of the “grab bags” will go to Ukraine via the “Cornwall and Devon Sending Love to Ukraine” organisation.

Their next convoy leaves Callington on November 29, allowing plenty of time for gifts to reach recipients and to feel our love over Christmas.

Crediton Lions are looking for new members so that they can continue and increase what they do to serve the community.

They invite everyone to visit their market stall on November 15 to find out more about what they do and the range of ways to get involved with Lions in the Crediton District.

For more information or to volunteer help, please contact President Ann Whitehouse on 07950 966987.