THIS week all pupils at Treetops School were given a treat when each and every one received a special 'lockdown keepsake' bear to take home with them.

The Port of Tilbury made a donation of 319 teddy bears so that every pupil could have one to take home to love. These bears are a reminder of how Treetops School came together when the world was apart.

Paul Dale from the Port of Tilbury said: "The lockdown period has been tough on so many people but especially our young people who have not seen friends or teachers for many months, so we were very happy to support the school with their bear project, which we thought was a great idea."

Ashley Simons who works at Treetops School and is the founding member of the charity 'Isla's Journey' also contributed by printing personalised t-shirts for every bear with a special quote and the Treetops logo.

Ashley said: "During the pandemic we wanted to help to boost mental health and overall well-being. When the Port of Tilbury offered to fund these bears, Isla's Journey then wanted to offer their printing services to help to support this project."

Treetops School have expressed thanks to the Port of Tilbury and Isla's Journey for working together to give pupils their keepsakes. Sarah Smith who works as a TA at the school said: "It was so lovely being able to hand out the bears to the pupils. We had a lot of emotional children who were truly overwhelmed."

The pupils have put together a video to thank the Port of Tilbury for their generous donation.