AGE is proving no barrier to supporting Operation Christmas Child for members of a Trowbridge pensioners group.

Honeypot Luncheon Club, which meets in St John's Church Hall in Upper Studley, has been contributing to the appeal for the last six years.

For many of the group filling a shoebox can prove too much, but they are all encouraged to do what they can even the club's oldest member, Edith Fryer, has not let turning 100 lessen her commitment to the cause.

Mrs Fryer has already knitted two waistcoats and a scarf for the appeal this year and hopes others will be encouraged to follow her example.

She said: "I've been very fortunate in my life and this way I can give something back. I know this will make the children very happy.

"I've got a big ball of wool so I might knit another scarf. I used to like to crochet, but I can't do it now because of my hands."

Honeypot meets every Monday and members say supporting the appeal has become a major interest for the group.

Organiser Susan Vale said those who could not fill boxes bought or made items to boost supplies at the depot.

She said: "What we try to do is say to them 'you are still part of the community, you can still contribute'. They are all such a happy lot."

Honeypot member Dennis Steward, 85, said the spirit among the group was one of the reasons the appeal has caught on.

He said: "It makes a lot of difference because the people are so friendly. We all try to do our little bit. It's not a lot, but added together it makes a lot.

Fellow member Anne Gilbert, also 85, has found her own way to support Operation Christmas Child.

She said: "All I've done is collect the wool as I can't knit any more. I give it to a friend and she's done all these beautiful things you can see here. I bribe her with chocolate.

"It's important for the children, it adds a bit of pleasure to their lives. After all we've got so much more than we ever used to have."

Information on how to fill your shoebox is available in this week's Star or visit www.samaritanspurse.uk.com