Gift shop aiming to send out 1,000 uplifting cards

The Highworth Emporium team hopes to send out 1,000 cards this week

A shop in Wiltshire is inviting customers to pop in, pick up a free card and write a kind, uplifting message for someone who may be feeling lonely or in need of a boost - before it aims to send out 1,000 cards this week.

It is part of Highworth Emporium's kindness initiative to mark Thinking of You week, which this year coincides with the town's volunteer week.

The team, along with the help of the local scouts, will deliver up to 1,000 cards to care homes, hospices, hospitals, and individuals across Highworth and the surrounding villages.

Aga Marsden, owner of Highworth Emporium, said: "Something as simple as a handwritten card can have such a powerful emotional impact."

She added: "It reminds people that they are cared for and that they are not forgotten.

"We hope this project spreads a little extra joy and kindness across our community."

Roger lives in Grove Hill Care Home and received a card from a stranger called Emily

Loraine Haines, who works behind the till at the shop, said uptake had been huge: "The majority of people are supporting it, which has been really lovely. They all say what a great idea it is."

The town's primary schools also got involved, writing about 500 cards.

Southfield Junior School's head teacher, Kimberley O'Sullivan, said: "I was thrilled to be part of this.

"The children often write me handwritten notes or draw me little pictures and I thought it was such a great way for the children to spread happiness beyond our school."

Nine-year-old Martha said: "Good things come in small packages and a card is like a small package of happiness."

'Somebody loves me'

Highworth Emporium team member, Amy Bishop, has already dropped a number of cards off at the town's Grove Hill care home.

Ms Bishop said: "Talking to the care homes, they thought it had brought a lot of joy to the people living there.

"You can have text messages and emails but is not the same as having a card in your hand. It's something so simple but effective and really meaningful."

Roger lives at the care home and said he did not often receive cards. He said opening the card made him feel emotional and that "somebody loves me".