Nearly 500 presents have been received and £1,300 raised for local children in the first week of this year’s Give a Gift scheme.

A pop-up shop opened in Lakeside last week where shoppers could drop off gifts or donations for youngsters who are otherwise unlikely to receive presents this Christmas.

Thurrock firm Thames Oilport handed over £1,500 worth of gifts on Tuesday.

As well as the presents, 205 rolls of wrapping paper and 40 advent calendars - which will be passed on to Thurrock Foodbank - have been donated, while Thurrock Council has received three enquiries about becoming a foster carer from visitors to the shop.