MORE than 25 local families living below the poverty line will receive special Christmas hampers made by Highworth Churches Together.

Members of all the churches in Highworth, who run the the town's Christians Against Poverty debt centre in partnership with the national charity, have filled hampers with food and other essentials to deliver all over the town.

Matt Ford, of Highworth Churches Together, said: "We know there is a serious need among some of the people in our care.

"It’s really tough living on a low income and many of the people we are working with have a list of other difficulties too, such as ill health, joblessness and grief.

"Christmas on a very tight budget can be a very difficult time – it’s a huge privilege to be able to lighten the load just a little."

"Our faith is the reason for our generosity and giving to others is a great way to celebrate Christmas."

Kathryn Ford, Highworth CAP Debt Centre Manager said: "It’s great to be able to say to people that however impossible their financial situation seems, we will be able to help them to become debt free."

Matt and his debt centre team visit every client in their home, helping people in Highworth, Faringdon, Shrivenham, Blunsdon, and Lechlade.

Then CAP’s head office negotiates with each person’s creditors and local volunteers offer support to each client until they become debt-free.

Anyone who wants to use their debt counselling service shoud visit website capuk.org or call the freephone number 0800 328 0006.