Christmas has come early for a group of Laindon youngsters.

Members of the Flying Pigs Kids Club on the Five Links estate were given the chance to get their hands on the latest children's toys before Christmas Day.

They were invited to take part in a toy test for the December issue of women's magazine Prima.

The group was nominated for the feature by the national Kids Club Network in recognition of the work it has done for many people in the Laindon community.

Club co-ordinator Sandra Freeman said: "The club's philosophy is summed up in its name - we believe anything is possible if you aim high enough. That's the attitude we try and instill in the children who come to the club."

The club was set up in April as one of Basildon Council's single regeneration budget initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Five Links residents.

It looks after youngsters aged between four and nine for a couple of hours after school.

The children can take part in a range of activities, from free play to structured games, arts and crafts. Local teenagers are also offered work experience placements with the club.

Sandra said: "The club has played a very important role in keeping children safe and stimulated in the evenings.

"We are registered for 20 children for each session, Monday to Friday.

"At the moment we are fully subscribed, but places do become available and we operate a waiting list system."

The Flying Pigs Kids Club has played a very important role in keeping children safe and stimulated in the evenings.

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