THE Journal is entering the spirit of Christmas this week with the launch of its annual present appeal, to ensure everyone in the city can join in the festive cheer on December 25.

For the last 25 years, the Journal has gathered gifts from kind-hearted readers and given them to charities to redistribute among those who would otherwise go without.

Many charities and organisations have handed out the presents in the past including Salisbury Trust for the Homeless, the women’s refuge, Alabaré Christian Care and Morning Star, a charity that provides food and support for homeless people.

Other presents are distributed at Christmas lunches for the elderly and infirm, vulnerable people in supported living and the children’s unit at Salisbury District Hospital.

Journal editor Bill Browne said: “Our readers never cease to amaze me in their generosity. Once again they have already been asking us when the launch of this appeal is and some have even brought in their gifts.

“We ask you all to think of gifts for all ages so that we can bring a little joy to those who would usually miss out at this time of the year.

“For some, this gift will be the only present they receive this Christmas and it lets them know that somebody cares enough to spread some festive happiness.

“While we know that many of our kind-hearted readers enjoy giving presents to children, every year we need more gifts for adults – particularly older men.

“Even simple things like toiletries, chocolates or warm clothing are gratefully received.

“Every present is handed straight to someone who is in need to help bring a smile to their face, and the people of Salisbury closer together at Christmas time.”

All it takes is for readers to choose an extra gift when doing their Christmas shopping this year. They are then asked to wrap it and attach a label saying if it is for a girl, boy, man or woman and giving a rough age of the person it is meant for.

Do remember, the appeal always needs more presents for adults, especially men.

Feel free to also attach a greetings card.

Bring wrapped gifts to the Journal office in Rollestone Street in the coming weeks and they will be collected by the charities just before Christmas so they can be handed out before the big day.