HARD-PRESSED families will have one less thing to worry about this Christmas thanks to the generosity of a Southbourne mum.

Anita Bartlett has collected around 120 chocolate advent calendars to be donated to families who use the local foodbank.

She came up with the idea last year when she encouraged her children to get extra calendars for youngsters less fortunate than themselves.

This year she enlisted some help to collect a greater number and she plans make the collection even bigger next year with a target of 500.

"Last year my children said they wanted to do something for a national charity so I told them there are people on our doorsteps who need our help just as much" she said.

"It is important that they understand that Christmas isn't easy for some families.

"There are almost certainly people out there who would have to choose between buying cereal and milk or an advent calendar for their children. This takes that horrible decision away from them."

Anita's daughters, Molly, 11, and 10-year-old Katie asked their friends at Avonbourne College and Stourfield Junior School for help and Girl Guides at All Saints and St Christopher's churches also donated.

"Everyone has been very supportive" said Anita. "I help with the Guides at All Saints and they were more than happy to make a donation.

Anita has delivered the calendars to Immanuel church in Southbourne Road, the home of the Southbourne Foodbank.