Pupils at Ottery St Mary Primary School have helped needy children abroad have a happy Christmas this year.

Boxes containing gifts such as toys, books and sweets were collected and packed by the youngsters, which will be sent out across the world as part of the Samaritan’s Purse shoebox appeal.

More than 90 boxes were collected this year - compared with 60 last year – and organiser Maria Clapp said she was very grateful for the ‘absolutely brilliant’ response.

“Some of the parents said to me that their children loved doing it because it was all about helping other children,” said PCSO Maria.

“It’s a great thing to be a part of and thanks to everyone who got involved.”