OVER a hundred local residents enjoyed a surprise Christmas treat when volunteers from a charity accompanied by schoolchildren delivered presents to them in their homes.

Organised by Ilkley and District Good Neighbours, the Christmas Parcel Project – which began 25 years ago – has always brought seasonal good cheer to a number of older and less able residents, some of whom might feel lonely and isolated, particularly during the festive period.

Pupils from Ilkley Grammar 6th form, along with a team of volunteer drivers, took time off from their studies to personally bring a present – either a hamper or a flowering potted plant – to brighten the day for some appreciative recipients.

“Christmas can be a challenging time as we know for some of our older residents,” said charity trustee and organiser of the Parcel Project Ed Duguid. “This annual event is just one of the ways we as a charity can support them and let them know that they haven’t been forgotten.

“It’s heart-warming to see the reaction when we arrive at their doors with a gift. And just as importantly they really enjoy meeting the young students and having a chat with them.”

One of the residents said: “It’s always a special moment when the schoolchildren turn up on the doorstep with their gift. It makes Christmas feel that bit more special.”

Preparing and organising the Christmas Parcels Project is a major operation and the charity thanks: Ilkley Round Table, who provided the funding; Ben Rhydding Lodge, supported by the rest of Ilkley Freemasons, who lent their hall for the parcel wrapping and packing and helped with the driving duties; The Rotary Club of Ilkley Wharfedale and The Rotary Club of Skipton Craven who provided drivers and parcel wrappers; Booths who helped assemble some of the key parcel contents, and Aldi for their free Christmas puddings. In addition the charity is grateful to Ilkley Community Transport and Ilkley Community Action for their practical and administrative support.

“We would also like to thank the charity’s own volunteers and trustees who helped pack and wrap the parcels, “ said Ed. “And of course not forgetting a special thanks to the young students who took time off from their studies to bring a smile to the faces of some of our local residents. It was a truly team Christmas effort by all!”

Ilkley and District Good Neighbours is an independent local charity running a number of projects aimed at supporting older and less able people living independently. The schemes, which are all free, include Befriending, Shop Assist and Moving On along with special events such as day trips and advice sessions.

If you want to know more about Ilkley and District Good Neighbours and the work they do in the community, or to ask about volunteer work, go to www.goodneighboursilkley.org.uk or call 01943 603348.