RESIDENTS and local businesses have raised almost £5,000 and donated hundreds of toys to help make sure Thurrock's most vulnerable children can wake up to a gift on Christmas Day. 

Thurrock's Give a Gift campaign returned for another year, and people were able to get involved by donating toys and gifts or donating towards an online collection pot that would be used towards gift cards for older vulnerable children. 

This year, a total of £4,996.05 was raised, with hundreds more gifts donated. 

Cllr Vikki Hartstean, cabinet member for children's services, education and community safety, said: "I am absolutely blown away by just how generous our residents and local businesses have been. Having seen the piles of presents that have been donated, as well as almost £5,000 being raised, it shows just how much of a special place Thurrock is. 

"Thank you to each and every person and business that has been involved and donated.

"Your generosity has helped to make sure that our borough's most vulnerable children have something special to wake up to on Christmas morning."