TESCO customers at its Pitsea superstore can gift a toy to local children in need this Christmas.

Until Sunday 24th December, Tesco Pitsea Extra is organising a collection of toys in store and sharing these with the Basildon Hospital children's ward and Basildon Womens' Refuge.

Amber Amis, store manager at Tesco Pitsea Extra, said: "We would like to thank the fantastic local community for the toy donations that they have made to support our local charities. It makes a big difference to these groups, and we are proud to be able to support those in need in the community at Christmas."

Claire De Silva, Head of Community at Tesco, said: "Our stores work so hard throughout the year to support their local communities through donating food and helping children have a stronger start in life. It is fantastic that customers in Pitsea have been able to support such important local causes this Christmas."

Customers are invited to donate toys at the front of the store in a specially designated trolley.