EMPLOYEES at the Port of Tilbury made a record donation of 122 gifts to Changing Pathways this Christmas.

The port has been supporting the local charity for 10 years with people from across its businesses providing gifts for women and children to open at Christmas.

Changing Pathways is a domestic abuse charity who work across the areas of Basildon, Brentwood, Castle Point, Rochford, Thurrock, Harlow and Epping Forest that provides free and confidential services to support people and their families who are currently experiencing or have previously experienced domestic abuse.

They now have refuge accommodation for up to 46 women and their children and also 16 self-contained flats for women and children who are ready to move on from the refuge, or who have older male children.

Paul Dale, asset and site director at the Port of Tilbury said: "The team at the port have again shown the strength of their generosity to Changing Pathways and I want to thank everyone who donated.

"This is a tough time for a lot of people and we hope that the gifts brought some festive cheer this Christmas."