A ROTARY Club has launched its Christmas appeal for needy people in the poorest countries of the world.

Newton Aycliffe Rotary Club is urging people to buy a gift from its catalogue, that will be donated to a deprived community or individual.

For as little as £1, someone could be given a better quality of life through the provision of spectacles or donations to fund education, health, clean water, mobility and food projects.

Gifts can be bought and delivered in the buyer's name or that of a friend or relative or donations will be combined to fund larger projects.

A club spokesman said: "These are gifts that will be truly appreciated for years to come, not just thrown on the Christmas scrapheap or tucked away in a corner of a cupboard.

"The Rotary Club will send a card to the person you have chosen, informing them of what you have donated in their name.

"Together we can make Christmas a time for people all over the world to celebrate and enjoy."

For more details and a catalogue and donation form, contact club secretary Paul Howarth on 01325-300212 during office hours.