A leading Havering charity is appealing for help in raising money for patients by asking for donations of unused or unwanted Christmas gifts.

St Francis Hospice, in Havering-atte-Bower, is welcoming unopened boxes of chocolates, biscuits, bottles of wine or spirits, hampers, perfume gift sets and vouchers, which can be used as raffles prizes at events throughout the year.

Unwanted clothes, toys, or even spare boxes of crackers can be of use.

Take them along to any of the 14 St Francis shops across Havering, Brentwood, Dagenham and Redbridge.

Steve Rose, hospice shops general manager is appealing for people to ensure these goods do not go to waste.

Last year the shops company generated �1.4 million of income through sales of donated goods.

Steve said: “After Christmas many people have a big tidy up and find unwanted presents and older items they need to clear away to make room for their new gifts. Rather than throw them out we are urging people to donate them to our shops as it could be just what someone else is looking for.

“Your donations really will be appreciated and make a difference as we can raise money from them to support Saint Francis Hospice in providing vital care to local people affected by life-limiting illness such as cancer and renal failure both in their homes and the hospice when they need it.”

Donations of unwanted gold jewellery, old mobile phones and stamps are also welcome as they can be sold and help towards the �7.2 million needed this year to provide specialist care, free of charge, to more than 4,000 patients and their relatives.

You can drop donations into the reception at St Francis Hospice in Havering-atte-Bower or to any of the Saint Francis Hospice shops or call 0108 376269. Details of your nearest hospice charity shop can be found at www.sfh.org.uk.