The Salvation Army in Aberystwyth has launched its Christmas Appeal to help people in need and has appealed to the public for support.

For many people, the Christmas season is about fun, presents, family, parties and sharing.

But for others the season means very different things - hardship, loneliness, hunger, sadness and desperation.

This year, as in previous years, the Salvation Army is working with various agencies to ensure that gifts and food parcels are collected and given to families and elderly people who need the most help.

Captain Claire Durrant, one of the ministers at the Salvation Army, said: “We simply couldn’t do what we do without the very generous public of Aberystwyth and surrounding areas.

“We are asking you, once again, to assist us bring some happiness and change lives this Christmas.

“This appeal includes gifts for age groups over a very wide spectrum, especially the elderly and teenagers. We are in desperate need of gifts that would suit birth - 100 years although, obviously, financial donations to purchase gifts would also be gratefully received.

“This year we are seeing a huge increase in people needing food parcels and we are grateful to work alongside the wonderful Jubilee Storehouse to be able to give people the basics to get through the week.

“Whatever you can afford, whatever you can donate - we will find a home for it.”

If you would like to donate to the Salvation Army Christmas Appeal 2018 you can drop into their church building in Alexandra Road, their charity Shop in Terrace Road or use the drop off point at the main Tesco Superstore.

See this week’s south papers for the full story, available in shops and as a digital edition now