Alliance member Blythswood Care raised enough funds to fill 118,000 shoe boxes with gifts for people in need in Europe and Asia.

Blythswood Care, based in Ross-shire, Scotland, combines the Christian message with practical help for those in need at home and abroad, regardless of their political or religious beliefs or ethnic origins.

The appeal result matched almost exactly the previous year's total despite the fact that many donors are feeling the pinch at home. 

"It's so heart-warming to see again the generosity of people around the UK," said Blythswood's chief executive James Campbell.  "Many of those who fill boxes have young families of their own and have to watch every penny they spend. 

"In spite of that they have made the effort to contribute personal and practical gifts that will bring joy to a stranger in need far way.

"On behalf of Blythswood and of those who received the gifts I want to say thank you to everyone who supported our 21^st Shoe Box Appeal."

Boxes were contributed by schools, churches, workplaces and individuals throughout the UK, from Unst in the Shetlands to Penzance in Cornwall, and including Northern Ireland.

Containing toiletries, clothes, sweets, toys and other every-day items, they were distributed in eight countries in Eastern Europe before Christmas, going to orphanages, schools, hospitals, care homes and gypsy villages.  In addition nearly 15,000 were sent to Pakistan. 

The appeal has taken place every year since 1993 and has become a major logistical exercise with teams of volunteers checking that each box complies with customs regulations.  "About one and a half thousand volunteers have worked in sorting stations from the Isle of Lewis to Somerset," said James Campbell.  "Without their help we just couldn't handle it and we owe them a huge debt of gratitude too."