A shoebox appeal to help youngsters affected by Hurricane Irma has been given a big boost by a Preston school.

Pupils from St Pius X Catholic Prep Schol in Fulwood delivered 102 shoeboxes to the University of Central Lancashire who are co-ordinating the collection.

The shoeboxes go to those who were affected when the hurricane struck the island of Sint Maarteen in September.

It also displaced hundreds of medical students who are now studying at UCLan while their Caribbean campus is repaired.

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Chief operating officer at UCLan Michael Ahern said: “The University community, along with the people of Preston, have been amazing in offering help and support to those AUC students who have moved to Preston to continue their studies while the island of St Maarten is rebuilt.

“There is a big recovery job taking place back on the island but we feel this shoebox appeal is a way of allowing us here in Lancashire the chance to help provide vital supplies to children who really have been left with very little.

“The items we’re talking about are basic supplies such as pencils, paper, notebooks, crayons, soap, toothbrushes, combs, sun hats, sunglasses and torches but unfortunately we can’t accept confectionery or food items.”

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The shoebox appeal is running until 15 January and the boxes can be dropped in at the Students’ Union opportunities centre in Fyulde Road and at UCLan’s In The Ciy shop.

Here’s the rules on the shoeboxes

The box and lid can be wrapped separately but must not be sealed

The box must be marked for the relevant gender

The box must be marked up which age it is for between 5 and twelve.

A letter or card for the recipient can be included

Anyone who needs further information can call 01772893000.