AN eight-year-old boy has launched a campaign to give Christmas-themed boxes to the foodbank for families in need.

Victoria Academy pupil Logan McIlroy came up with the idea of a reverse advent calendar after talking to his mum Rebecca.

The kind-hearted youngster then took it upon himself to write 100 letters to hand out to neighbouring homes asking for donations so he could make up as many boxes as possible.

Thanks to his mum posting an appeal via Facebook his kind-hearted gesture has touched the hearts of many who have shared the plea and offered to help.

His aim is to collect enough boxes of mince pies, Christmas cakes, biscuits, selection boxes, toiletries, packets of stuffing and crackers to fill 10 hampers for the foodbank.

In his touching letter, Logan wrote: "Dear neighbour. My name is Logan McIlroy and I live on Clevelands Avenue.

"This year my family are making a reverse advent calendar for the foodbank as this time of year can be difficult for some people.

"We shall be adding items to our box each day and then donating it to the foodbank in time to hand out before Christmas.

"I thought that if my neighbours also donated some items then we could make more calendars.

"If you like my idea and would like to make a donation my mum will leave a box by our door."

Logan's mum spoke of her pride in his generosity and spirit of goodwill.

"He has had an amazing response and lots as positive comments from our neighbours and in one day he has already collected enough for a couple of boxes with more on the way," Mrs McIlroy said.

"We shall be delivering all of the collection before December 14 so that the foodbank can get it handed out in time for Christmas.

"His aim is to collect enough to make five boxes but has said that he would love it if he could make 10.

"Both myself and my husband are extremely proud of Logan and it's amazing to see how excited he is getting over each collection and for someone so young to understand that sometimes people need some kindness and a little bit of help is fantastic."

Logan's gesture has been praised by many on social media including Barrow Foodbank who were made aware of his efforts.

His mum added: "He is starting to feel proud of himself with all this positive feedback."

The foodbank posted on their Facebook page: "What a superstar, you’re our hero, thank you Logan."

Anyone who would like to donate to Logan's collection can contact Mrs McIlroy at mcilroybecka@gmail.com or drop off items at CM Home Fragrance at Unit 8D at Furness Business Park in Peter Green Way.

Specific items the foodbank is in need of are posted on their website at www.barrow.foodbank.org.uk.

The foodbank has a healthy supply of tinned baked beans but is in need of teabags, coffee and tinned fruit.