CHARITY workers have praised the generosity of County Durham people who almost doubled their contribution to the Christmas shoebox appeal for underprivileged children.

This Christmas, 18,444 shoeboxes filled with sweets and toys were collected for children in eastern Europe, compared with 9,500 last year.

And that boosted the North-East total of more than 83,000 shoeboxes collected on behalf of Christian group Samaritans Purse International.

More than 800,000 shoeboxes have been sent to 15 eastern European countries from Britain so far.

"It's been an incredible year, beyond belief," said organiser Sandra Reynolds, from Consett, who has visited schools in County Durham and north Teesside for the appeal.

"In the end, we had to divert some boxes to Newcastle, so the true figure for County Durham is even higher.

"One thing that was excellent was that Consett fire brigade got involved to help load our lorries at our warehouse in Consett. They loaded 587 boxes in 45 minutes for one lorry, which is a record across the whole country.

"We're going to send a report on how these boxes have really affected children's lives to each school which helped."

Mrs Reynolds said more than £34,500 was also collected from across County Durham, and from Hartlepool and Stockton.

Young offenders from Hassockfield Secure Training Centre, at Medomsley, near Consett, all boys aged between 12 and 17, gave up their weekly sweet allowance for good behaviour to the appeal.

Observers will ensure the boxes being delivered across eastern Europe go to disadvantaged children.

Anyone who contributed and who wishes to receive a report on this year's Operation Christmas Child can contact Mrs Reynolds on (01207) 506385.