SURROUNDED by glitter-covered paper, scissors and tape Winchester volunteers have been busy wrapping presents for the needy.

Members of Winchester Round Table and other charity supporters worked like little elves to prepare 40 Christmas hampers to be given out to Winchester young carers and the elderly.

The hampers – which was carefully crafted around the needs of the families – are each worth around £40 and aim to bring a little happiness to people at Christmas time.

They were funded by funds generated from this year’s bonfire night which raised some £40,000.

Community service chairman, Rowland Rees, said: “We’ve been busy wrapping 40 hampers all morning!

“Winchester Round Table ran the bonfire night and from that we raised £40,000 this year. It’s going to be distributed among a few charities, including Cash for Causes, but some of it will go to help Winchester young carers as well as the needy.

“There are about 25 young carers who are receiving a hamper from us and about 15 others, namely the elderly and the lonely.”

Mr Rees said the annual event always brings a smile to people’s faces as they’re hand delivered.

“They are full of Christmas goodies,” he added. “For the older recipients we have port, Christmas cake, smoked salmon, brandy butter and mince pies. For the carers we have children’s toys and presents and everyone is tailored to the need of that family.”