IT would be unthinkable to a child in Herefordshire - A Christmas of dread and fear, without food, electricity, and no presents under the tree.

A Christmas where survival is more important than a visit from Santa Claus.

Sadly, it's a daily scenario on the Gaza Strip - but you, our readers, could change all that this Christmas time.

The Hereford Times has teamed up with Children of Peace to launch this year's Christmas Appeal.

The good cause is improving the lives of Gaza youngsters by supplying hand-outs and much needed goods to an area decimated by shortages and isolation.

It also aims to educate Israeli and Palestinian children together, so that future generations can live in peace.

But with almost 60% of the 1.4million population under 14 and winter fast approaching, supplies are running out, and that could spell disaster.

We were drawn to the good cause by former Mayor and Herefordshire councillor, Lloyd Marcelle-Hayes, and its founder, Richard Martin, a marketing guru who lives in the city.

The former got onboard having taken part in a similar programme in the former Yugoslavia, and persuaded Chadds to provide a lorry for the appeal.

Both she and Mr Martin, know time and help is of the essence.

"The children are in a terrible situation at the moment where they're not getting the basic items they need," said Mr Martin.

"It's getting increasingly difficult for people to survive," added Mrs Lloyd-Hayes.

"Everything which we take for granted and is freely available, like food and petrol, is becoming increasingly restricted to them. They really need our help."

So we need anything you can spare - and here's how you can help.

From December 11 to 15, we're looking to fill a Chadds lorry with box-loads of your donations. The lorry will appear each day outside the West Door of the Cathedral, before the goods are flown via Bristol to Israel, and then driven to Gaza.

Sleeping bags, tinned foods - not baked beans or pork - and kids clothing are on the wishlist, while hearing aids, spectacle frames and stationery will be gratefully received.

There's also the question of money, as it will cost around £5,000 to transport the goods to Gaza through the Red Cross.

If anyone can provide a donation, then they'll be making a big difference.

Further updates will regularly appear in the Hereford Times, but more information about Children and Peace and their work can be found at www.childrenofpeace.org.uk or at 01825 768074.

Alternatively, contact Marcelle Lloyd-Hayes on 01432 274289 - we're counting on your support!