SHOEBOXES full of gifts and goodies are heading to Africa and Asia after pupils in Thetford took part in the Operation Christmas Child campaign.

SHOEBOXES full of gifts and goodies are heading to Africa and Asia after pupils in Thetford took part in the Operation Christmas Child campaign.

Having learnt about children who lived in dire circumstances, the Thetford Grammar Junior School pupils decided to make posters to remind everyone to hand in their shoeboxes by the deadline

The children packed shoeboxes full of gifts, including toys, educational supplies and hygiene items which were then sent to children of all ages in disadvantaged situations.

Teachers believe it is an important lesson to give with no expectation of a gift in return, as well as an opportunity to develop empathy and the ability to put themselves in someone else's shoes.

The generosity of the pupils and their parents has meant that another 42 children will have a delivery of presents for Christmas this year in Africa, Eastern Europe or central Asia.