A TEAM of staff from a Shoebury superstore brought some festive cheer to Southend Hospital with a generous donation.

Christmas came early for young patients on Neptune Children’s Ward on the site, which was presented with sacks full of brand new toys and gifts at Asda on North Shoebury Road.

The presents were bought and donated by generous customers of the store.

Store manager, Bob Foster, also donated a gift of his own – a giant cuddly polar bear.

Kayley Harvey, community fundraising manager for Southend Hospital Charity, said: “Our sincere thanks to Asda in Shoeburyness and their generous customers.

"The toys and gifts will make such a difference to our young patients who are spending Christmas on the ward and we are very grateful for their thoughtfulness.”