Santa is receiving some unusual Christmas letters this yearfrom the children at Uphall Primary School, asking him to only give presents to others.

The Bake House production company came into the school, in Uphall Lane, Ilford last week to promote caring for others at Christmas time through writing letters to Father Christmas.

Tricia Kheejoo, a teacher at the school, said: “The whole point is to think of Christmas as not about themselves and what they want but what they can give to others.”

“The kids had an amazing time and enjoyed being taught the real meaning of Christmas,” she added.

The children asked Santa to help children in need before they post the letters at shopping centre Exchange Ilford, High Road, Ilford.

The shopping centre has pledged to donate 50p to the Dream Factory charity for every letter sent.

The Dream Factory, based in Fowler Road, Hainault, grants wishes to terminally ill children.