Schools in the area are showing that a small act of kindness can go a long way.

Pupils at St Andrew’s Primary School, in Great Yeldham, St Peter’s Primary School, in Sible Hedingham, De Vere Primary School, in Castle Hedingham and Ridgewell Primary School are all taking part in Project Paddington.

Children are asked to donate a teddy, with a welcome message attached to it, to help refugee children fleeing conflicts in Syria, Jordan, Iraq and other European countries.

Donations are also taken to help fly the teddies to the camps, through charity Tearfund.

The Reverend Liz Paxton, curate in Sible Hedingham, is co-ordinating the efforts of the schools in the area.

“The schools were looking for something to do which is meaningful,” she said.

“The children refugees have nothing, not teddies or toys.

“This project is really involving children in helping other children.

“There is a real enthusiasm for the project I expect we will get about 50 per cent of the pupils taking part.”

Anyone is welcome to bring a washed and clean teddy and donate - just drop them off at St Peter’s Church, Sible Hedingham.