The Salvation Army has raised more than $450,000 and needs another $50,000 to reach its Christmas target.

It plans to distribute 500 hampers to more than 1,400 people as well as 500 toy hampers to children under 12.

Distribution takes place on December 18 through social service agencies and a day later for those who applied through the Family Services office.

Divisional Commander Major Lindsay Rowe said: “We are confident we will surpass our target.”

He said more than 1,300 families and 5,000 people had appealed for food, clothing and counselling over the year.

Those wishing to donate non-perishable food or cash should call 292 0601.

A variety show featuring dancing, singing and acting is the way several students at CedarBridge Academy have chosen to celebrate cultural diversity.

The school's performing arts department will hold it second annual

Festival of Lights event this weekend.

Christmas, Chanukah and Kwanzaa are among the events to be featured as well as cultures of Mexico, England, Portugal and Hawaii.

The runs tomorrow night at 7.30 p.m. and Saturday afternoon at 2 p.m. at Ruth Seaton James Hall.

The General Post Office in Hamilton will be opening for the next two Saturdays in order to manage the high volume of Christmas mail.

Opening hours will be between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. on December 14 and 21.

“The Christmas period is traditionally a high volume time for the receipt and delivery of mail as we provide this service so that our valued customers can get their last minute letters out,” Assistant Postmaster General Velda Smith said.

Ms Smith also issued a warning to residents that cash should not be sent through the mail.