Vet students are spreading Christmas cheer this winter by distributing rucksacks filled with essential items to homeless people and their pets.

Bags are stuffed full of vital items including warm clothing, toiletries, blankets and food items, as well as a Christmas card.

Filled rucksacks will be dropped off at soup kitchens around Edinburgh and delivered directly to homeless people living on the city’s streets.

Students from the University of Edinburgh’s Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and Roslin Institute are working with local homeless charities to organise the appeal.

Rucksacks were donated by pet food manufacturer Royal Canin and were packed by volunteers.

As well as bags, items for dogs, including reflective jackets, leads, toys, dental chews, food and blankets, will be handed out at a student run veterinary clinic, All4Paws, which provides free pet care for homeless and vulnerable people.

The initiative was launched last year by Edinburgh graduate Jaime-Leigh Thompson and is led this year by students Marie Gallagher and Katie Ross.

Third year vet student Marie Gallagher, said: “The outstanding success and support from the vet school and all its friends has been fantastic. It’s so heart-warming to know that we’re helping someone this Christmas.”

Fellow student Katie Ross, said: “The involvement from everyone at The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and The Roslin Institute has been incredible, and it has been so rewarding to see so many people band together to contribute to such an important cause.”