"I don’t know what I would do if I didn’t have a lunch on Christmas day, I am really thankful."

These are the words of 65-year-old Ken White, pictured right, who lives alone and enjoys a Christmas lunch brought to him by Age Concern.

Since we launched our Christmas ‘Show You Care’ campaign at the beginning of the month, to collect festive gifts for the elderly, we have heard many heartwarming stories from those who rely on Age Concern organisations in north Kent to give them a special Christmas.

And this year we are asking if readers too will help.

When out shopping could you buy an extra present or item of food to brighten up Christmas Day for an elderly person, just like Ken, who may be facing the big day alone.

The retired British Railways worker explained how important such generosity is.

He said: "I live on my own, all my family have passed away and I don’t have a cooker so the meals are wonderful.

"If someone I didn’t know bought me a gift for Christmas I would be really grateful.’’

Some donations we receive will be handed out via Age Concern’s community services to elderly people living in Dartford and Gravesend together with other presents which will be given to the elderly on Christmas Day, when it really matters.

Annette Davies, chief executive of Age Concern Gravesend, said: "We are appealing for readers to buy an extra gift when out shopping for family and friends this Christmas.

"A small bottle of wine or sweets or chocolates would be fantastic. Something that can be enjoyed along with the Christmas lunch.’’

Items can be delivered to our office at 7 High Street, Gravesend, DA11 0BQ, at the following times: Mon-Tues 9.30am-4.30pm; Wed 10am-2pm; Thu-Fri 9.30am-4.30.

The closing date for deliveries is Monday, December 14.