Churchill's in Long Sutton set up toy donation room to help families in need this Christmas

Staff at a family-run pub have embraced the Christmas spirit in a bid to give something back to the community.

For the second year running, Churchill's in Long Sutton has transformed its function room into a toy donation centre to help out less fortunate youngsters.

Toys were donated by generous residents throughout the area, and have been available to collect since this morning.

Pub owner Debbie Rose has played a major role in the scheme, which she was originally inspired to start up after her granddaughter and her friend helped her donate items to families in need.

"I've just got everything out on tables, and you will get people coming in," she said.

"Families will probably come like they did last year, so we just let them pack it up and let them go."

Churchill's provided help for over 30 families last year, and staff have urged anyone in need to come down between now and Thursday - which is the final pick-up day.

All leftover toys will be taken to children's hospitals and social services starting from Friday.

"We've got all sorts of toys," Ms Rose added.

"There are games, jigsaw puzzles, teddy bears, anything.

"Anyone can come in and we'll give them a box. Some people are a little embarrassed to come in, so they can private message me.

"The room is private, so they can come in or we can go out and hand things out.

"Nothing gets thrown away. If we've got any clothes they'll go to the Salvation Army, and I've only got three days to do it because we're really busy this weekend."

Ms Rose stressed that these initiatives can make a big difference to families at this time of year.

"It's really important," she added.

"Everybody's had a very bad couple of years, and I like to support all the charities.

"When you go to see these families, they're really genuine people who need the help."

"I'm old school and where I come from we all look out for each other, and I just can't change.

"It's the generosity from the people of Long Sutton We can't do it without them.

"They've donated so many amazing presents, and it will help these families.

"When I was brought up we had nothing. We had love and that was it, and I don't forget my roots. I know how hard it was for my mum.

"People are struggling and businesses are struggling, so if we can help anyone we will do."

Nearby resident and Churchill's customer Leah Burnett said: "She's always going above and beyond to support the community - she's always warm and welcoming.

"She's such a lovely person."

All toys are free to take from Churchill's, with visitors allowed to take as many as they'd like home with them.

You can find the pub at PE12 9BN in Long Sutton, or you can phone staff at 01406 258671.