A local charity is calling upon its supporters in the community to return their collection tins in an effort to raise thousands of pounds in time for Christmas.

Little Havens Hospice recently launched its #greattinhunt asking supporters in the community to get in touch if they’re currently looking after one of charity’s collection tins which may need emptying and replacing.

Across Chelmsford, Maldon, Brentwood and Colchester there are currently over 270 tins in shops, pubs, restaurants, businesses, offices and homes. S

ome of these tins have been in place for many years and the charity estimates the value of donations inside them could add up to as much as £11,000.

Claire Wilson, Community Fundraiser for Little Havens Hospice, said: “It’s brilliant that so many local people proudly display our collection tins and pop donations into them as well as allowing their customers, colleagues and visitors to do the same.

"As we approach Christmas we’re asking people whose tins have been sat unemptied for a few months or more to get in touch so we can collect the tin, count up the donations and help to pay for the care we provide to life-limited babies, children and teenagers.”

“We’ll happily replace the tins with empty ones so our supporters can continue to donate their spare change and we’ll send you a certificate to show how much you have raised.

"Whether we care for a child for years, months, weeks or even just hours, we make a real difference to their life and every penny you pop into one of our collection tins can help us do that.

"So please call us today and the donations in your tin can start ‘Making every day count’ in time for Christmas.”

You can share your pictures or selfies with Little Havens Hospice collection tins on Twitter and Instagram by using the hashtag #greattinhunt and tagging @havenshospices Little Havens Hospice in Thundersley is part of Havens Hospices which also incorporates Fair Havens Hospice in Westcliff.

If you’d like your collection tin to be emptied or replaced please call Kerry in the Fundraising Team on 01702 220305 or email ksnode@havenshospices.org.uk.