TWO charitable women have launched an Essex wide collection to help give those less fortunate a happy Christmas.

Ayla Doggett, 19, of Southminster, and Alisha Hinkson Schlaich, 30, of Silver End, will be collecting advent calendars and food supplies to give to families who have limited money, to help them enjoy Christmas as best as possible.

Ms Hinkson Schlaich has been collecting for food banks for four years, and Ms Doggett was inspired to help her to make people happier over the festive period.

They have also set up a crowdfunding page to raise £500 to put towards their food bank collection.

Ms Doggett said: “I have come on board to help Alisha with advent calendar and food bank collection for Christmas.

“Alisha has been collecting for four years now and I’m excited to make someone smile this Christmas.

“We are collecting advent calendars to make children who may not get the chance to have one due to the tight budget their parents/carers are on.

“Secondly, we are collecting every day essentials like tea and coffee, tins, biscuits, dried pasta, Christmas treats such as chocolates and Christmas puddings.”

The women want to have their advent calendars collected by November 12, and have the food collection ready for November 26.

They will be using the Braxted Bakery in Little Braxted as a collection point for anyone wanting to drop off donations directly.

Ms Doggett added: “We are lucky enough to have the support of the Braxted Bakery who have said we can use them as a collection point. There will be a box there in the next week or so but we will keep you updated.

“Thank you to everyone for the donations so far, and over the years, we are very grateful for the support.”

To donate, click here.