A CHRISTMAS initiative to comfort the older and isolated residents of Tavistock has been launched.

Devon and Cornwall Care Services (DACCS), a Tavistock homecare provider, is one of 10 care companies in Devon to launch the Christmas Shoebox Appeal in order to benefit those of the community who are isolated at this time of year.

It is reported that hundreds of elderly people who live in the South West have no friends or family and rely solely on contracted care. And it is these members of the community who will not have presents to open on Christmas Day. It is the aim of DACCS, and the other organisations, to change that statistic.

This is the first year DACCS has run the appeal and hopes members of the Tavistock community will get involved.

Director Pauline Hilton said: ‘This is for the elderly who are on their own in the community and for people who are isolated.

‘If you know people who can do with this then tell us. We are covering the Tavistock area for this appeal — please help us spread the word and give a little joy for people in our community.’

‘This is voluntary — we are not looking for money, just items. We are looking for Christmas things like mince pies, fruit and nut chocolate, fluffy loose socks, gloves, puzzle books, pens — anything that is warm and fits in a shoebox and makes it christmassy for them. This is not like the foodbank, this is for Christmas items and to make somebody cheer on Christmas Day.’

To donate a gift — or a shoebox — contact DACCS on 01822 610734. Alternatively, you can drop off donations to DACCS at 5 Canal Road, Tavistock, PL19 8AR.

No donations of perishable items please. Deadline for donations is Thursday, December 19.