TWO Parliamentary hopefuls are putting their differences aside to back the Hereford Times Christmas Appeal.

Sarah Carr and Jesse Norman are backing the Children of Peace bid to save lives in Gaza this Christmas.

"Children need love and kindness," said Mrs Carr. "The children of Gaza are hungry and many do not have adequate shelter to protect them in the cold winter," added the Liberal Democrat.

"I urge local residents to be generous in donating food, clothing and stationery to these children who have already seen so much conflict and suffering."

Jesse Norman, the Conservative hopeful, told the Hereford Times that Children of Peace was an exemplary good cause.

"I have worked quite closely with Richard Martin (founder of Children of Peace) on numerous occasions and I'm delighted the Hereford Times has chosen it for their Christmas Appeal," said Mr Norman.

"You can take it from me, I think Children of Peace is a phenomenal charity and I'm very much in favour of what they do.

"I am bringing a box down and I hope that more people will do likewise."

Mr Martin, a Hereford-based marketing consultant, said the appeal was going well but urged more public involvement.

"We are getting lots of support and we thank The Hereford Times and everyone for helping out - we are very grateful," said Mr Martin.

"But we still need lots of help. We're desperate to raise £3,000 to 5,000 for a container to keep all these items in, and we're looking to find someone, a company, or generous individual that can help us out."

If anyone can help, contact Children of Peace at www.childrenofpeace.org.uk or at 01825 768074.