Bags full of gifts have been collected for poorly children who are in hospital at Christmas time.

Premier Travel in Halstead High Street, launched the Santa’s Sack appeal to collect presents that will be given out on Colchester General Hospital’s children’s ward.

Seventy toys were donated and given the success it will now become an annual appeal.

Manager Judith Bates said: “We would like to take the opportunity to say a very big thank you to everyone who kindly donated to the cause and would like to wish all of our customers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.”