THAMES valley police have been busy surprising residents with Christmas hampers during routine patrols to give back to vulnerable members of the community.

Officers handed out hampers to residents they have come to contact with during this past year, such as victims of crime, those who live alone and vulnerable people in the community.

The delivery started on Monday, December 17 with a total of 12 hampers being gifted to residents.

Police Constable Lisa Anderson based at Newbury police station said: "When members of the public come into contact with the police, it is often under difficult circumstances.

"By delivering festive hampers we have an opportunity to engage with members of the community in a positive way."

The people that received the gifts were identified by the emergency response and neighbourhood teams as needing an extra helping hand this Christmas.

Hampers were filled with goodies, such as mince pies, Christmas crackers and toiletries which were all kindly donated by local shops in Newbury and Thatcham.

A total of six retailers got involved with the project, including Waitrose in Thatcham and TK Maxx in Newbury Retail park.

PC Anderson added: "Christmas is a particularly difficult time for some people so we want to provide reassurance that they have the support of the police as well as their local community.

"I would like to thank all of the retailers who have donated gifts and wish everyone in West Berkshire a very Merry Christmas."