A NUMBER of local families in need will get a festive boost thanks to the efforts of the Grays-based Riverside Big Local community group and its supporters, including Morrisons.

The Big Local team and supporters were busy today buying items and then packing up hampers for a number of local families who have been identified as in need at Christmas.

The hampers will contain some staple items, but also some festive treats that will bring something special that the families might otherwise miss out on during the holiday.