Christmas has come early for youngsters at a Colchester nursery thanks to a donation of toys from the East of England Co-op.

Stepping Stones Play and Learn Group, which gives mainstream children and children with additional needs the chance to play and learn together, received 40 Christmas gifts from the retailer’s funeral branch.

The array of soft toys brought huge smiles to the youngsters, all aged between two and four years old.

The funeral branch has been supporting the charity for two years with donations of Easter Eggs, Mothers’ Day flowers and a £1,000 donation towards its mini-bus fund.

Carol Nice, founder of the nursery, said: “The morning was absolutely lovely and full of Christmas cheer as the children played and shared their toys with one another.

“The East of England Co-op Funeral Services gives us great support throughout the year which we are very grateful for as they raise our profile and enable us to help more local families.”

Tony Playle, funeral manager at East of England Co-op Funeral Services, said: “It was lovely to see the children’s reactions.

“These donations may be a small gesture but they make a big difference in bringing a smile to the faces of those in our communities.

“Stepping Stones Play and Learn Group carries out such fantastic work for local families and it is a privilege for our team to be able to support them and we hope everyone at the group has a merry Christmas and a happy New Year.”