Christmas treats are to be given out in Dawlish, to spread some festive cheer at the end of a tough year.

Two separate schemes have been announced by the Mayor, Alison Foden, and the Helping Dawlish support network.

Cllr Foden will be providing 20 Christmas hampers, and local residents are being asked to nominate the people they should go to.

Ten will be given to people over 70 who are particularly vulnerable or in need of something to lift their spirits.

The other 10 will go to individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to their community during the Covid-19 pandemic.

How do I nominate someone for a hamper?

Nominations can be made by downloading a form, in Word or PDF format, from the Town Council website and emailing the completed form to [email protected]

If anyone has problems doing this, they can send an email containing the information requested on the form to the same address.

Anyone who would rather receive a copy in the post can call the council offices 01626 863388, and send their form to Dawlish Town Council, Manor House, Old Town Street, Dawlish EX7 9AP.

All nominations must be received by Friday, December 4 and the council will let the applicants know if their chosen person will receive a hamper. The hampers will be delivered during the week before Christmas.

The Helping Dawlish hamper scheme

Meanwhile, Helping Dawlish is inviting cash donations to put together its own hampers, called Christmas Hug in a Bag.

The support network hopes to give out between 80 and 100 packages containing sweets, savoury snacks, Christmas crackers, puzzles, cards and other items to help people celebrate.

The packages will be given to individuals and families who are in need of some festive treats.

Local musician Ellie Finnerty will be supporting the scheme by performing festive music which will be livestreamed on Facebook on Saturday, November 28 at 7.30pm. She will be encouraging people to donate.

To make a donation to the Helping Dawlish Christmas appeal, visit their website or call 07584 052 306.

Any businesses that would like to provide items for the packages are also asked to phone Helping Dawlish.