By Edward Kemp

A SALISBURY businessman is appealing for volunteers to help with a festive hamper appeal aiming to help struggling families across the area to enjoy Christmas this year.

For the last five years, Stephen Conway, who owns Cavendish Films, has co-ordinated the appeal to provide gift boxes including ingredients for a Christmas dinner, presents, crackers and confectionery to families in crisis.

The Trussell Trust helps to identify the families most in need while the volunteers pack and distribute the items direct to families’ homes.

More helpers are needed to help with the packing of the hampers, which will take place at St Osmund’s Church hall at 11am on Tuesday.

“There is a misconception that there are no struggling families in Salisbury,” said Mr Conway. “In fact we have seen an increase in people turning to charities like the Trussell Trust because people are losing their jobs, falling in to debt or struggling with health problems.

“The festive season can be really difficult for families. It is important to show that local people care, particularly at this time of year.

“Sometimes when we deliver the hampers the children go bananas and other times the adults will come out and give you a hug. That is what makes it all worthwhile.”

The project has been supported by Tisbury-based PR firm E=MC2 and local photographer Fritz Curzon, who agreed to help pack and deliver the Christmas hampers.

David McAuley, general manager of the Trussell Trust, said: “We hope people will spare a little to help all local families have a happy Christmas.”

To volunteer or donate items, call Mr Conway on 07771 781555. Alternatively, cash donations can be made by visiting www.justgiving.com/hampers.