CHRISTMAS is fast approaching and Operation Christmas Child is sending out a reminder to everyone that as of November 4 the drop-off points for shoeboxes will be officially open.

All those interested in contributing the cause have still got plenty of time to get involved and the first step is to pick up a leaflet from The Westmorland Gazette office in Wainwright's Yard in Kendal or, alternatively, order one from www.samaritanspurse.uk.com or by telephoning 0870-011-2002.

Then simply find and decorate an empty, medium sized shoebox, decide if your gift is for a girl or a boy, choose from the list of age groups and fill it full of gifts.

Remember, you don't have to spend a fortune; charity and cut price shops are ideal for finding suitable items that are sure to bring a smile to the face of the Romanian child who receives them.

This year's drop off points will remain open until November 24 and include: The Westmorland Gazette offices, K Village Factory Shop, the former Good Acre warehouse on Aynam Road and Frothi Moon bridal shop, all in Kendal; The Wordsworth Hotel, Grasmere; Hayes Garden World, Ambleside; Mountain Goat Ltd, Windermere; The Salon on Kings Street and the Emmanuel Christian Centre, Ulverston; Grange Tourist Information Centre and Grange Now in Grange-over-Sands; Brough Post Office; Kirby Stephen Post Office; Appleby Flower Basket and Stephenson's Greengrocer, Appleby; and New Balance Factory Shop, Shap.