CHRISTMAS is still giving in the Meon Valley.

The local Lions Club has donated new laptops to four schools using money from its festive collections.

Despite the annual Santa runs being cancelled due to Covid, more than £2,500 was raised.

Carole Dash of the club said: "Following the brilliant response Meon Valley Lions Club had to its Christmas collections, the generosity of our communities is always amazing, it was decided to donate the monies raised to help students from local schools who are struggling following the recent lockdown and need for home schooling.

"With stories of some children huddled around a phone trying to study, the need was obvious and very urgent. The club was pleased to be able to offer help to four local schools by providing Chromebooks.

"The schools were extremely grateful, saying 'your kind donation of the Chromebooks will make such a different to the learning and lives of families who are not in a position to purchase'.

"Such a gesture cannot be underestimated as it will support their future life chances, the families will be so appreciative."