Martin's double Christmas cheer

12.01.00am GMT Thu 3rd Dec 2009

CHELTENHAM MP Martin Horwood is to launch his annual Christmas card today - or rather his Christmas cards. This year, Martin and Lib Dem volunteers across town will be delivering two different cards, each one promoting a local charity. 25,000 will feature a stunning winter scene of Cox's Meadow taken by local photographer Ian Gee and promote local cancer support charity LINC (Leukaemia and Intensive Chemotherapy fund) based at Cheltenham General. The second 25,000 cards will promote a locally-based charity, WellChild, that supports sick children and their families nationwide. The card features a design by Finnley, aged 7, one of thousands helped by the charity based in Royal Crescent.

Giant versions of the two cards will feature in the launch of the Christmas campaign this morning.

Martin's annual Christmas card has previously supported local charities such as the Cheltenham Housing Aid Centre, National Star College and Sue Ryder Care's Leckhampton Hospice. It is not paid for out of public funds but supported entirely by local donors and delivered by Lib Dem party members and volunteers to 50,000 homes.

Martin said "We're lucky to have a wonderful NHS locally but even with fantastic professional care, there is always a little extra help that can make all the difference to people and families facing illness and sometimes difficult treatment. LINC and WellChild both support those coping with illness in their different and highly specialist ways and I know that those who have used their services cannot praise them highly enough. Cheltenham should be very proud of both charities and I'm certainly proud to do a little to help them. I know money is tight for many people this year but anyone who is in a position to support them will know that their gift will be very much appreciated"