A charity manager has told of his joy as more than 15,300 gift-filled shoeboxes from across Norfolk head for vulnerable children in Belarus and Serbia as part of Operation Christmas Child, one of the UK's largest annual children's charity projects.

The shoeboxes have been donated by individuals, schools, businesses, churches and organisations from communities across Norfolk.

Teams of volunteers in processing centres at Norwich and Peterborough have worked long hours collecting, checking and loading the shoeboxes for transportation.

Norfolk regional manager for Operation Christmas Child, Gordon McCann said: 'It's tremendous to see such kindness, particularly at a time when the economic downturn is hitting so many people. Everyone who has donated a shoebox can be absolutely certain that it will have a very positive impact on the child who receives it.

'It might be difficult for someone to appreciate what a few toys, some toiletries and education items mean, but the children are so appreciative.

'On behalf of Operation Christmas Child I would like to say thank you to everyone in Norfolk who took part.

'We've had great support from the public locally and from our volunteers. I wish everyone could see the children's smiles; it shows the simple act of someone here sending a shoebox is a very personal and important act of kindness.'