Bluewater shopping centre is getting into the festive spirit with the return of its charity initiative to support local disadvantaged children.

The Giving Tree invites shoppers to the Greenhithe mall to donate a gift directly to more than 50 local charities this Christmas.

Shoppers select a scratch card to reveal the name and age of the child they can buy a present for.

Once purchased, the gift should be brought back to the tree and will be placed into the giant gift donation box ready for distribution.

Now in its seventh year the Giving Tree will be located outside M&S on the upper mall from tomorrow until December 20.

Bluewater is also introducing Tap to Donate this year allowing those who are short on time, but still want to make a real difference this Christmas, to donate via contactless payment.

All money raised through the donation point will be distributed to more than 50 local charities.

Victoria Adley, community manager at Demelza Hospice Care for Children, said: “We have been fortunate enough to have benefited from this wonderful initiative for many years.

"This year, more than ever, we want to deliver the best possible Christmas for children with serious and terminal conditions and their loved ones. Your donations to The Giving Tree will help make this happen.”

Robert Goodman, senior centre director at Bluewater, said: “It’s extremely important for us to give back to the local community, particularly at Christmas which can be such a difficult time for many – especially this year.

"We are sure our guests will give generously to help everyone to have a happy Christmas this year.”

To find out more about The Giving Tree please visit bluewater.co.uk

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