OPERATION Christmas Child has sprung into action after finding a new storage and export base at the old silk works in Warminster.

As preparations for the world's largest Christmas project get underway, the Wiltshire contingent were given permission to use the old factory on Monday to base their operations from with access from Factory Way.

Area Co-ordinator Steve Lloyd said: "We are going to put a map on both doors as there are two ways into the factory but they are only 100 yards apart. We got the okay for the site last Monday so we have been working hard to get everything sorted out.

"We will operate for at least a month and probably the first week in December but if anyone wants to come and check boxes get in touch with me. I will be here in the evenings from 5.30-6pm as we get a lot of children coming to help.

"It has been really good so far and there are a lot of positives so I am looking forward to it all. The numbers are up already from last year and I think we will top 40,000 boxes this year as there is quite a lot of interest.

"The boxes for Operation Christmas Child have really captured the hearts and the minds of people this year."

The warehouse, which is based on Factory Way, Warminster, BA12 8LX, will be open Monday to Friday from 10am - 4.30pm for packing and will also serve as a drop off point for boxes.

For more information about Operation Christmas Child or to help out with the packing call Steve Lloyd on 07715843872.