MAKE someone less fortunate than yourself smile this Christmas by taking part in the Rotary International Shoe Box Scheme.

For the fifth year running we have teamed up with Rotary International to distribute gifts to deprived children and families across Eastern Europe.

Last year generous Lincolnshire Newspaper readers donated almost 3,000 boxes to the appeal and brought joy to many at Christmas.

This year Rotary will deliver your boxes to Romania, Belarus and the Ukraine.

They say items we take for granted in our daily lives can make a huge difference to the poor families there.

In the case of the children, these toys may be the first gifts they have received for a very long time.

Reporter Helen Bell travelled with the shoe boxes to Romania and watched as they were delivered.

She said: "I was touched by their disbelief at receiving such a gift. The appeal really makes a difference to these children; the delight on their faces was obvious."

To take part come along to our offices and collect a free flat pack box and fill it with toys, teenage items or household goods.

A free leaflet is included with the box to explain the appeal and offer suggestions on how to fill it.

Suitable toys to include are small toy cars, small bouncy balls, jigsaws, fluffy toys, dolls, colouring books, felt tip pens, Lego and yoyo’s.

Household goods such as hand soap, toothpaste and brushes, envelopes, letter paper and biro pens are always welcome.

Don’t forget teenage boys and girls up to the age of 18 with gifts such as make-up, toiletries, sportswear, scarves, gloves, hats, writing materials, deodorants, combs, mirrors and football memorabilia.

A card with the senders name and address, along with a photo is also a nice thing to include.

Please do not mix the contents of the boxes since this makes distribution difficult.

Filled boxes must then be returned to the office by November 19 for collection by Rotary.

* Rotary are urging people only to take the boxes if they are intending on filling them as there are a limited amount available.