Residents have been left puzzled after carriers bags full of shopping were mysteriously left outside homes.

Bags are said to have been left on the doorsteps of more than half a dozen houses in Earls Colne in the last fortnight, including homes in Foundry Lane, Willow Tree Way and Hayhouse Road.

They have also allegedly been abandoned in nearby Colne Engaine as recently as Wednesday.

It is not known whether it is an act of charity or a prank.