Iain Ashbourne, who owns Batteries Not Included toy shop in Wolverhampton, was a ‘real-life Santa’ as he donated 13 bags of toys to children.

Amy Turley, a mother of two, was working a night shift on a cancer ward at Sandwell Hospital, West Bromich, when her home was burgled on Christmas Eve. Thieves stole £600 worth of gifts, including her two sons’ Christmas presents. The hidden gifts had been ripped open, and her house was trashed.

Amy’s sister-in-law Gail Perkins, a police officer, shared the story on social media where it received many messages of support and sympathy, including an appeal from comedian Jason Manford, and a response from Iain.

Iain returned to his shop at midnight, filled his car with presents, including some bath bombs for Amy as well as toys, and delivered them to the family. He commented: “I’ve got children of a similar age and just put myself in Amy’s place. You could be a millionaire but no matter who you are or how much money you’ve got, if shops aren’t open you can’t replace Christmas presents. It was nice to be able to do it.”

Amy donated the leftover toys which were too young for her boys to the hospital where she works.