RESIDENTS are being asked to donate unwanted laptops to an initiative aimed at supporting children learning at home.

Richard Chaplin is working with tech firm General Geek to have second-hand computers restored so they can be used by youngsters.

The majority of primary and secondary pupils appear set to carry out learning online until at least February half-term due to the national lockdown imposed to slow the spread of coronavirus.

And with some children struggling to access their work remotely, Mr Chaplin hopes his new partnership with General Geek, which is based in Braintree, will provide a valuable service.

He said: “Whilst Essex County Council has a scheme for recycling used computers, they are concentrating on obtaining ex-business machines in bulk, and whilst they would accept machines from individuals, the donations have to be made at a few locations.

“Such movements while under lockdown are difficult and may discourage possible donors.

“The issue is becoming urgent and acute.”

General Geek is wiping the memory on laptops clean free of charge.

You can drop a laptop off at the firm’s offices in Springwood Drive between Monday and Friday.