Essex County Council is asking businesses to donate any laptops no longer used to help provide college students with equipment to help them study during the pandemic.

The authority has already given 160 laptops to colleges across the county with an additional 200 soon to be distributed.

The 160 laptops, which include unused county council stock and donations, will be given to young people who do not have access to technology.

The further 200 laptops have been purchased from the proceeds of parts of devices that have been donated.

A council spokesperson said: "With many places of education opting for a more blended learning offer and homework increasingly becoming an online activity, this will enable these young people to access their school or college work at home.

" All children and young people should have the tools to give them the best start in life and bridging the technology gap is so important in helping them to achieve their potential."

If businesses have under 50 spare laptops they can donate to any of the county council's main buildings. If they have over 50 to donate then collection will be arranged.

For more details head to the county council's website here.