Warwickshire County Cricket Club is again pledging support for young people at risk of homelessness at it upcoming Christmas Carols Service, by backing the Christmas Shoebox Appeal of St Basils, the club’s Lead Charity Partner.

Members of the Bears’ playing squad, the cricket management team and club staff are encouraging Members and supporters to join them by filling a shoebox wrapped in gift paper, or a festive gift bag, with treats and other stocking fillers that you think a child aged three and under or a young person aged 16-25 would appreciated.

Some of the young people supported by St Basils will be spending their first Christmas on their own, and knowing that someone in their local communities is thinking of them will mean the world to these young people.

Ravi Masih

All donations received will subsequently be donated to 60 young people and small families at accommodation schemes supported by St Basils at the Edgbaston Cooperative and Edmonds Court in Small Heath.

Ravi Masih, Head of Community Engagement at Warwickshire CCC, said: “At this time of year, for many of us, our thoughts turn to those less fortunate than ourselves and St Basils’ Shoebox appeal is an excellent way to show support.

“Some of the young people supported by St Basils will be spending their first Christmas on their own, and knowing that someone in their local communities is thinking of them will mean the world to these young people.

“St Basils is keen to ensure that everyone of the young people in its centres receives at least one present, so please do pack any items that you feel appropriate and the players will deliver in their visit before Christmas.”

This year’s Christmas Carols Service will be hosted by the Reverend Canon Nigel Hand of Birmingham Cathedral, with performances from the renowned City of Birmingham Choir.

Doors open to the Christmas Carols Service at 11.30am all Members, supporters and guests very welcome to join players and staff to celebrate the festive season with a minced pie and glass of mulled wine. Additionally, the Shop at Edgbaston will be open from 10am with new 2018 diaries and calendars now in stock priced at £10 each.