SHOEBOX charity Boxes of Hope Cumbria is inviting people across the county to bring Christmas cheer to children in Romania.

As the charity launches its yearly appeal, there is a chance to find out more about how the youngsters are helped, during special talks today and tomorrow by Nicu Gal, who leads Boxes of Hope's partner charity in Romania.

Everybody is warmly invited to meet Nicu today (Thursday) at Carver Church, Windermere, 2pm-4pm; and Sedbergh Methodist Church Hall, 7.30pm-9.30pm.

He will also be giving talks tomorrow (Friday) at Sacred Heart School, Barrow, 11am, and Church Rooms 12pm; Millom Methodist Church Hall, 2.30pm-4.30pm; and St Mark’s School, Natland, 7pm – 9pm.

This is Boxes of Hope's third year as a registered charity, and volunteers say they have been "greatly encouraged by the tremendous support from local people", not only filling shoeboxes with Christmas gifts but also raising money for a school in Tinca village.

For many of the youngsters, the filled shoebox will be their first gift, and you can pick up a leaflet from places around South Lakeland or visit www.boxesofhopecumbria.co.uk to find out more.

People have until November 12 to fill their shoeboxes, and the team will be travelling to Romania in early December to give them out.