The record number of boxes was achieved by residents from 21 Colten Care homes across the south despite COVID-19 restrictions making the logistical exercise of collecting and packing the boxes more complex than usual.

Gifts included toys, gloves, scarves and hand puppets with some items personally hand knitted by residents. The boxes will be sent to children living in desperate conditions in parts of Albania, Montenegro, Moldova and Romania.

International committee chair at Boscombe and Southbourne Rotary Club, Neal Curtis, said, “Despite the obvious concerns over the feasibility of operating the scheme in the light of the COVID epidemic, it was considered particularly important to support the children in these difficult times.

“We need not have worried because the support we have received from Colten Care residents and staff, and from local schools, has been tremendous.

“We have already collected more boxes than ever before. What could have been a very disappointing year will actually be a bumper year, giving so much pleasure to hundreds of underprivileged children.

“Thank you to Colten Care for your wonderful support notwithstanding the difficult circumstances.”

All 21 homes did their preparations earlier than usual to ensure the collection was covid-safe. Individual items and boxes were sanitised and put in quarantine. Once collected, the Rotary Club is also taking extra storage and sanitising precautions.

Ena Potter, a resident at Bourne View, said, “We take so much for granted in our daily lives while many of these children are experiencing heart-breaking poverty. It’s only right that we do our bit to help.”

Donia O’Connor, senior companionship team leader said, “Our residents are always happy to support the Rotary appeal and it was amazing to see the whole collection assembled at Bourne View. We all hope our gifts will provide some joy and hope to the children.”