Christmas has come early to a Maldon care home after a surprise delivery of cheery artwork from a primary school almost 90 miles away.

Residents at Elmcroft Care Home were delighted to receive colourful pictures of rainbows and animals sent as a random act of kindness from King's Oak Primary School in West London.

The care home residents spent the last few weeks creating Christmas pictures of their own to send to their new young friends as a thank you.

Jemma Crossley, Care Support Worker at the 52-bed care home in the historic town of Tolleshunt Major, said: "It was a real surprise to open up the envelope and find all the beautiful pictures inside, particularly as the school was so far away.

"The residents were blown away when we showed them. We put the pictures up on display and they were keen to do their own in return before Christmas."

Fifteen residents have coloured in reindeers and other festive favourites ready for posting later this week.

Jemma added: "We have a lot of residents in the later stages of dementia so creative activities like drawing and colouring really help them, both socially and with their cognitive needs.

"This small act of kindness means a lot to them. It's sparked conversations, memories and brought them so much joy in the run up to Christmas."

The school in New Malden started sending postcards to care homes after Year One teaching assistant Tessa Williams was asked to think of something enriching to do with the children.

Ms Williams said: "It is something my daughter and I have been doing since the pandemic and I knew how excited my daughter was when we received replies so I thought the children in years 1 and 2 would find it just as exciting."  

"Many people felt isolated during the pandemic and none more so than older residents in care homes unable to have visits from friends and family. I saw the idea through Age UK and sent postcards and pictures to homes all across the country."

She added: "We've not had many replies, so it was wonderful for the children to discover their pictures had made someone smile. I can't wait to see their reactions when we receive the residents pictures."