A SPONSORED 'hymnathon' at a Wirral church has raised more than £800 for a charity helping some of the world's most disadvantaged children.

Carol Braithwaite, minister of Woodchurch Methodist Church, took to the organ and played 500 hymns.

Her efforts raised £870 for the Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Appeal.

One of country's leading charities, the organisation delivers shoeboxes filled with gifts to those living in very difficult conditions in several countries.

Carol said: "As a pianist, it was a real pleasure to sit and play, knowing that I was raising money for a worthy cause and that the shoeboxes make a real difference in the life of a child".

A celebratory cake was cut to mark Carol's achievement.

David Smith, church and centre co-ordinator at Woodchurch Methodist Centre said: "We thank the people of Wirral for last year’s total of 9,847 shoeboxes, the majority of which went to children in Ukraine."

If you are interested in helping with the 2015 Shoebox Appeal, call Anne Crawley on 608 2930.