A KIND-hearted nine-year-old collected more than 500 toys and games to be delivered to disadvantaged children this Christmas.

Elmstead Primary School pupil Daisy-Mai Tomes, who lives in Hythe, Colchester, set up an Amazon wishlist where people could order items like books, crafts and boardgames directly, also spending her own pocket money on the presents.

More than 50 different people donated more than 500 items and the gifts will now go out to children across Colchester via charity Home-Start Colchester, where Daisy-Mai delivered the items with mum Kayleigh.

Kayleigh said: "As her mum, I knew how kind and generous she was before but she has blown me away with the dedication and selflessness of spending her own pocket money and time on collecting toys, making sure no child goes without this Christmas. I'm extremely proud of her.

"Since doing this she's been contacted by a kind lady who has offered her a family pass to Rollerworld and has been given a community recognition award.

"She is thinking of more ways she can help the community."

A spokesman for Home-Start Colchester said: "We are so grateful and overwhelmed to receive the presents and proud of Daisy-Mai.

"The presents will go towards local families and children this Christmas to ensure no child is left out."