Panache Cruises has shown its support for the people of Ukraine by participating in a shoebox appeal.

The line has packed more than 25 boxes containing toiletries, toys and sweets to be sent to the country and gifted to people in need.

All the items have been funded by monetary donations from members of the Panache Cruises team, with the line matching the funds raised.

The initiative is part of a wider campaign operated by Chorley and District Support for Ukraine Christmas Shoebox Appeal.

Senior copywriter George Rowlands spearheaded the scheme internally, saying he felt a personal connection to the country having lived their for five years before the Russian war broke out.

“I moved [to Ukraine] in 2017 and fell in love with the country and its people before coming home in 2022,” said Rowlands.

“It’s a country that gave me so much and I feel it’s only right that I give something back at this time, when so many of my friends and people I consider close enough to be my family are suffering.”

He added: There are boxes for men, women, boys and girls. We’ve included necessary items such as toiletries and other useful items such as battery powered torches, earplugs and some Christmas gifts like tea, biscuits and sweets as well as toys and activities for the children.”