An overwhelming amount of donations for Ukraine has filled the warehouse at Castlepoint.

Since the empty Argos unit at the shopping centre opened on Monday, donations have been flooding in.

And it's led to the drop-off closing today - Thursday - to allow volunteers to sort through and package existing donations ready to be sent on a lorry on Friday.

A spokesperson for Castlepoint Shopping Centre said: "Due to an overwhelming amount of donations, the drop off point is now closed until Friday.

Read more: Inside the huge warehouse swamped with donations for Ukraine

"We are sorry for any inconvenience caused but we must use this time to sort through and package the existing donations. Volunteers are still welcome to come and help us 9am - 6pm. Thank you for your support."

In a separate post, they added: "We are in desperate need for empty boxes, pallets, shrink wrap and of course volunteers.

"Please contact us or come along to the vacant Unit next to JD Sports between 9am - 6pm if you are able to help. Thank you in advance."

Cllr George Farquhar posted on his Facebook page some links where people could donate money to support the cause as well.

"If you want to donate money to support Ukrainian refugees, you can donate to the British Red Cross https://donate.redcross.org.uk/appeal/ukraine-crisis-appeal

"If you want to donate money for the fuel for the trucks and vans taking these donations please do so here

"The Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain (AUGB), founded in 1946, is also organising a co-ordinated response that has reached over £1,500,000 already."

He added: "There is still a shortage of the below essential items.

"These are the only donations to be taken in at the moment is but ABSOLUTELY NOTHING ELSE in the donation box please."

  • First aid kits, bandages, painkillers
  • Antiseptics
  • Batteries
  • Power banks
  • Flashlights/ torches
  • Binoculars
  • Night vision devices
  • Medical gloves