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Christmas Shoe Box Appeal Launched To Aid Ukrainian Soldiers

Islanders are being urged to dig deep to help frontline Ukrainian soldiers as part of a festive appeal.

The Christmas Shoebox Appeal will see several boxes of items hand delivered to the war-torn nation by Islander Nigel Watson — a proud member of Sandown Methodist Church.

This will be his second trip to Ukraine since Russian troops invaded the country, with a previous visit to deliver medicine, sleeping bags and other items undertaken in April.

Nigel said:

"I was inspired after thinking about how I could help people somehow and then during a service Ukraine was mentioned — all of a sudden it became clear I was to take aid out there.

"I used my own money for accommodation and transport but eventually received donations of £9,500 over the four months.

"It’s my intention to stay there until Christmas and beyond this time if possible.

"Can I take this opportunity to thank all previous donors for their contributions.

"The Ukrainians are such a friendly people and many times I’ve had them hugging me and thanking Great Britain with all their hearts for the help we’ve given them."

Those interested in donating to the cause can either leave boxes at All Saints Church in Gurnard or at the County Press offices in Pyle Street, Newport.

Alternatively you can call 298643 to discuss other ways in which to help with the appeal.

The list of items currently sought after is divided into three categories as follows:

Clothing

  • Thick/thermal socks
  • T-shirts
  • Underpants
  • Neck warmers
  • Warm pull-on hats
  • Balaclavas 

Health and personal care

  • Paracetamol
  • Throat sweets
  • Plasters/bandages + safety pins
  • Toothbrushes + toothpaste
  • Shaving foam
  • Razors 
  • Deodorant

Food items and extras

  • Chewing gum
  • Sweets/chocolate
  • Biscuits/small cakes
  • Nuts/dried apricots/nibbles
  • Pot Noodles
  • Savoury biscuits
  • Playing cards/games
  • Christmas cards

The final date for boxes to be left is November 25, and people wishing to donate money are asked to tape £2 to the front of their box.

People are asked to secure their box with an elastic or rubber band.

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