An eight-year-old boy decided to fundraise this Christmas after thinking about those who would not be spending the holidays with loved ones.

Rodmersham Primary School pupil Reece Dunmore dressed up as Santa every morning for two weeks and stood outside the school gates collecting money for Help for Heroes.

He was inspired to support the charity after thinking about what the festive season is like for people who have lost family members fighting for their country.

Reece’s head teacher Nicola McMullon was only too happy to allow him to don the red suit and beard for the worthy cause.

He said: “I wouldn’t like to wake up and not have my mum and dad there at Christmas.

“One of my mum’s friends was killed in action in the army so I was thinking about what that would be like.

“I want to dress up as something else soon so I can raise money for another charity, maybe something for children.”

Reece has collected more than £300 after numerous generous donations from fellow pupils and parents.