Organisers of the reverse advent calendar project in Ipswich have thanked the generosity of people donating gifts to those in need after a last-minute plea resulted in dozens of additional gifts.

Ipswich Star: Left to right: Kat Goddard, Nigel Campbell, Sarah Barber, Emma Helyard, Suki Helyard and Lisa Stannard with gifts donated to the Ipswich reverse advent calendar appeal. Picture: NICOLE DRURYLeft to right: Kat Goddard, Nigel Campbell, Sarah Barber, Emma Helyard, Suki Helyard and Lisa Stannard with gifts donated to the Ipswich reverse advent calendar appeal. Picture: NICOLE DRURY (Image: Archant)

Organisers have been collecting Christmas gift donations which will go to the mayor’s charities – Ipswich Hospital, Families in Need and the Lighthouse Women’s Refuge.

After a final plea for donations yesterday, the cause has reported that dozens of additional toys have been donated, which will be taken to youngsters at East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices as part of the visit by the Regent panto cast tomorrow.

Mayor Sarah Barber said: “We are absolutely amazed and delighted by the generosity of the public.

“This is on top of all the presents that have been sent off to my official charities.

“This has been such a success and it’s a really welcome example of the spirit of Christmas.”