As Christmas approaches, a Bolton resident is appealing for the borough to give joy to Ukrainian guests by gifting shoe boxes filled with goodies.

Nicola King is hosting a Christmas Appeal for the guests from Ukraine who will be without their loved ones this year.

Supported by Bolton Ukrainian Cultural Centre, Nicola is asking residents to make shoe boxes filled with suitable items.

Yaroslaw Tymchyshyn, chair of the Bolton Branch of the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain, is supporting Nicola with the scheme and is hoping the community can also help put smiles on the faces of refugees from his country this Christmas.

He said: "Christmas is a time for giving and receiving.

"It is a family time.

"Many of the Ukrainians do have contact with their families through the internet, however, it is no substitute for personal contact.

"The giving of Christmas Shoe Boxes cannot be measured against not being with families, but this gift from an unknown person is an act which will be greatly appreciated.

"This will be the first Christmas that many of the Ukrainians will not be with their families but also not in Ukraine.

"Any act of giving is welcome with thanks."

To take part, residents are asked to pack their boxes, label the box with the age and gender but to not seal the box, email for drop off venues and smile knowing they have helped a family who is a long way from home this Christmas.

Ideas for the content of the boxes include usual items like toys and sweets for children, and adults and older children will appreciate toiletries, make up, pocket mirrors, nail clippers/files, photo frames, coin purses, candles, food treats such as cookies or hot chocolate.

But people can choose what they would like to gift on their own accord.

If you would like to make a Ukrainian guests Christmas, email bolton@manchesterhomesforukraine.org