A Romford shopping centre has revealed the types of gifts it is looking for people to donate towards its annual Christmas appeal.

The Mercury shopping centre launched its Giving Tree initiative last week, in partnership with Havering Women’s Aid and The Romford Recorder.

The campaign has been helping people in need in Havering over Christmas for more than two decades.

In recent years, the scheme has backed Havering Women’s Aid - a charity that helps people escaping domestic violence.

It supports two large women’s refuges in Havering, which are made up of more than 30 flats for women and children.

The Mercury’s Christmas appeal works with the charity to provide each family - or individual - with a selection of Christmas gifts.

Shopping centre manager Spencer Hawken said: “We’re so grateful to our shoppers for their generosity and support during the busy Christmas period, proving, once again, just how generous our shoppers can be.”

The appeal is looking for various gifts including chocolates, skincare, dressing gowns, toys, craft gifts for adults, candles and much more.

Specific gifts can be found on the Dream List and appeal organisers ask that people only donate new items due to the safety and the passing of the items onto the refuge.

The full wish list is here: https://www.dreamlist.com/list/j5iaznjezsd5jjbp5alcdaj2d2 or simply search for The Dream List at The Mercury Shopping Centre and Havering Women’s Aid.

Gifts can also be sent to the Mercury management suite by visiting www.dreamlist.com and searching for The Giving Tree For Women’s Aid Havering.

People can also order a gift to the shopping centre for collection from Asda or The Entertainer and some of the other shops, and email info@themercurymall.co.uk with the collection time.

Donations can be handed in to the helpdesk, to the security team or to the management office anytime between 7am and 11pm, or via e-vouchers to info@themercurymall.co.uk.

Simon Murfitt, Romford Recorder senior editor, said: “I’m delighted the Recorder is joining forces with the Mercury for this appeal.

"The women and families supported by Women's Aid are at a difficult moment in their lives.

"But if through the generosity of the people of Havering we can bring them a touch of normality and Christmas cheer then it will be well worth it."

The Mercury is accepting gifts for The Giving Tree until Friday, December 20.