ANN Barber and Becky Hill from Sainsbury’s Local in Rayleigh delivered a whole host of early Christmas presents to Southend Hospital’s Stroke Unit, the stores charity of the year.

They brought items that will make a real difference to the lives of their patients, such as mugs with big handles to help recovering patients drink hot drinks more easily, art and craft supplies, to help patients improve their fine motor skills and shaving mirrors.

They said: “We were absolutely delighted to hear that the Stroke Unit had been nominated as the charity partner for Sainsbury’s Local Rayleigh.

“The team have so many wonderful ideas about how they can raise more money and support for the unit, we are looking forward to continue working with them in 2017.”

To date, Sainsbury’s Local Rayleigh have also raised around £400.