Residents have been praised for donating advent calendars - collectively weighing the equivalent of four adult reindeers - to Wokingham Foodbank at Christmas.

Wokingham Borough Mayor Cllr Caroline Smith said: “I am so proud of everyone who took part in this very worthy appeal.

"The reverse advent calendar donation area at our council offices kept overflowing thanks to the generosity of our residents, borough councillors and community.

"Your contributions have been outstanding and you have helped so many local people in need.”

Wokingham Foodbank was chosen by the mayor as the charity of the year and residents were encouraged to collect 24 food and festive items to donate to the bank.

The items would then help local people struggling with the cost of living, rising energy, fuel and food prices. 

Manager at Wokingham Foodbank Annette Medhurst said: “We were delighted by the community response to our reverse advent appeal.

"December was our busiest month on record and it was fantastic to be able to distribute so many nice extras to households at such an expensive time of year."