A FIVE-year-old girl has lit up an independent living community by drawing a rainbow for each resident.

Isla Willis has been producing her pictures for The Hawthorns, in Tortoiseshell Way, Braintree, while being taught at home by mum, Tina.

Tina, who is a housekeeper at the complex, suggested the idea to her daughter to help boost spirits among residents during the coronavirus lockdown..

And young Isla has risen to the challenge by drawing a rainbow for each resident.

A letter sent by her mum to those living at The Hawthorns read: "Isla has been very busy doing home schooling with me and part of the fun is that we can do things together.

"Isla loves drawing and wanted to do you all a picture and as you are isolated,we thought it’s probably best you all have one each of your own. So for the past few weeks, each day she has been completing her task.

"We hope you are all doing well, keeping busy and that her little picture will help brighten up your day."

Michaela Saunders, assistant manager at the complex, said the rainbows proved popular among residents who have written a letter of thanks back to Isla and her mum.

She said: "The residents were very touched by the pictures and wrote back to Isla thanking her, some giving presents and one resident even knitting a pair of slippers for Isla.

"Isla has had lots of invitations to come and visit when we are able to facilitate this."