THIS year's Shuttle Gift Appeal has been an overwhelming success with more than 3000 presents being donated for vulnerable children. 

Now in its 18th year, the gift appeal, with Home-Start Wyre Forest, asked members of the community to buy a gift for local children whose families are facing difficulties.

The appeal has received an overwhelming number of gifts from local groups, businesses and individuals, with thousands of presents coming in.

New presents for children aged 0-18 years were collected and then delivered to families receiving support from Home-Start Wyre Forest, before several carloads were distributed to local schools, where staff ensured they were given to families where they will help the most.

Kidderminster Shuttle: Home-Start Wyre Forest co-ordinator Kelly Hurst with Dan Newton from OpenreachHome-Start Wyre Forest co-ordinator Kelly Hurst with Dan Newton from Openreach (Image: Home-Start)

Belinda Darby, manager of Home-Start Wyre Forest said: "We were concerned that with the cost of living rises it might be difficult to secure donated gifts this year, but quite the opposite has happened.

"People have been exceptionally generous and given some stunning gifts, alongside cash donations, to ensure that the families we support have a less pressured and more enjoyable time over Christmas.

"Thank you to every individual who bought a gift for a local child.

"You have done something truly wonderful for a family who now knows they are not alone this Christmas.

"Our community is thinking of them, whatever difficulties they may be going through".

Kidderminster Shuttle: Donations from OpenreachDonations from Openreach (Image: Home-Start)

Shuttle editor Stephanie Preece said: "What an amazing response to our appeal, particularly as this year has been difficult for many households.

"I'd like to say a huge thank you to those who donated and wish you all a very Merry Christmas.

"Your donations will help bring a smile to the faces of many children on the big day".

We would like to thank those who acted as drop-off points for gifts this year; The Swan Centre, Your Coop Midcounties and Tesco main stores, Franche Community Church and Bewdley Methodist Church and the Companies and groups supporting the appeal; Openreach, Signal Traffic Management, Hagley Medical Surgery, MCD Kidderminster Buying, Helix and Compass Commercial Ltd.