Olympic star gymnast Max Whitlock joined MP Stephen Metcalfe to give out Christmas presents to children in Basildon and Thurrock University Hospital last Friday.

It was the third time Stephen Metcalfe has run his successful Christmas toy appeal for children spending time in hospital over Christmas.

Max, who won a silver medal winner in the all-around competition at the 2014 World Artistic Gymnastics Championship, was joined by other medal Hopefuls from South Essex Gymnastics Club.

Competitors Reiss, Anthony & Brinn went to the hospital together with their coach, Scott Hann and Club Chairman, Roy Short, to spend the morning Mr Metcalfe said: “I was overwhelmed by the response to the appeal. In only a few weeks, we received hundreds of pounds in donations from individual well-wishers including Conservative Party Members, Community Service clubs such as the Rotary Club and businesses across Basildon and Thurrock. I was also delighted that South Essex Gymnastics Club continue to be involved and help with this, now annual event. I would like to thank everyone for their generosity and for getting on board with this appeal.”

He continued: “No one would want their child to be in hospital at anytime, but over the Christmas period it can be especially difficult. I hope that this small gesture will bring a little Christmas cheer to the patients and their Carers.”