A FORMER Eastender has returned to her roots to support a famous charity in its new campaign to turn the lives of disadvantaged children around this Christmas.

Popular actress Tamzin Outhwaite, who grew up in Ilford, is backing Barnado's Real Gifts appeal, which aims to get people buying ethical presents this Christmas while providing cash for important projects to help vulnerable children across the UK.

Buying a gift of £10 from the charity would provide enough cash to pay for a kettle for a young mother living in temporary accommodation, while a £15 gift would pay for emergency food and heating for a homeless young person.

Tamzin, who is mum to 17-month-old Florence, said: “Many of my friends are mums and I think they’ll appreciate a real gift this Christmas.

”Knowing that their present has provided a new bike or a winter coat for a child living in poverty, or a multi-sensory toy for a child with autism, beats scented candles and overpriced bubble bath any day.”

The charity's London, East and South East England office is based in Barkingside, giving the appeal even more resonance for people across Redbridge.

Martin Field, UK Director of Fundraising at Barnardo’s said “It’s that time of year when we all start looking forward to Christmas. But for some families it’s going to be a real struggle.

“By including one of Barnardo’s Real Gifts among your presents you can help to make Christmas a happy and memorable time for a child or young person that we work with. Giving your loved ones a feeling that they’re helping others at this special time of year is just priceless.“ “Our simple and user-friendly website means all gifts can be purchased easily and conveniently, taking the hassle out of Christmas shopping. With the range of gifts available we promise you’ll be spoilt for choice."

For more information on the Real Gifts campaign, visit www.barnardosrealgifts.org.uk.