Specsavers in Melksham collected a record number of shoeboxes for Samaritan’s Purse appeal as part of Operation Christmas Child.

The store in Bank Street was a drop-off point in the town for the appeal, calling on residents to donate shoeboxes filled with a goods, from sweets to toys.

Having received more than 500 boxes this year, the gifts were taken to the appeal’s depot in Westbury before being sent worldwide.

Martyn Thomas, Melksham store director said: “We’re thrilled with the amount of support we’ve received this year from the local community.

“We’ve collected an outstanding amount of shoeboxes filled with all sorts of items; we even received donations of hats, gloves and scarves, so the town has clearly been busy knitting.

“Every child should be able to celebrate over the festive season and thanks to the generosity of customers and local residents, we can help Samaritan’s Purse make a difference to disadvantaged children worldwide.”