A STANFORD-le-Hope-based church has thanked local resident for their generosity in the build-up to Christmas which has enabled it to help others in the community who are in need.

Gateway People's Centre is a church based on the town's High Street and its members have thanked everyone who has supported its recent appeal for items to fill Christmas shoe boxes.

A statement from the church says: "Thank you all for the many, many donations that have come in, from full shoe boxes, Christmas boxes, chocolate selection boxes, toiletries, plus the sacks and sacks of clothes and toys. The list goes on, they are very much appreciated.

"The love everyone has shown is incredible.

"We have now closed the doors to donations until at least the new year (unless you have spoken to us personally). But we are open if you are in need of anything, so please don't be shy, message us and we will serve you willingly. And if you know a family in need also let us know."

You can contact the centre through its [L] https://www.facebook.com/Gateway-Peoples-Centre-256936748068149/?ref=page_internal [L+]Facebook page.

The statement added: "Please can we ask that no one leaves any donations outside of the centre as we aren't always there to collect and wouldn't want our neighbors and community walking round ii. Many thanks indeed."