ANYONE in danger of feeling left out at Christmas only needs to be in Williton at 5.30pm on Christmas Eve to discover that the festive spirit is alive and well.

For the past eight years, ‘Christmas Spirit for Williton’ has handed out festive treats – with help from supporters – and will be doing so again this year.

“Santa Claus and his elves will be touring the village, handing out bags of sweets, apples and oranges to anyone who looks as though they need cheering up,” said Barrie Pope, one of the organisers.

“But we rely on the generosity of businesses and the community to provide the treats and, once again, we will be touring the village from 5.30pm today (Friday), collecting wrapped sweets and donations and hope everyone will come up trumps as usual.

“Without help from the village, this heart-warming event just wouldn’t be possible.”

Collections start at the Sampford Brett junction and take in all the main streets, Mamsey House and Williton Hospital.

“We usually hand out about 300 bags of sweets,” Barrie said.

“If we haven’t enough, we use donations to buy more. Everyone seems to love the event. They say it brings back the real Christmas spirit.”

Anyone who cannot get to a collection point can contact Barrie on 01984 639656.

Donations can also be left at 16 White Croft, Williton.