A shopping centre is donating thousands to help a teenager take part in a World Challenge.

George Yard Shopping Centre in Braintree is donating the money raised from the popular Christmas Grotto to Braintree Rugbyb Club.

The sold out event raised £1,200 which will help 13-year-old Ethan Scherer's fundraising challenge.

Ethan has been a member at the rugby club since he was just four.

Now, the Alec Hunter Academy student is participating in a World Chellenge expedition to Southern Tanzania to help build community projects.

Ethan is currently training for a triathlon to raise the rest of the £3,000 he needs to fund the trip.

Peter Scopes, Centre Manager at George Yard Shopping Centre said: “We’re delighted to have raised such a fantastic amount for Ethan’s Southern Tanzania Expedition, seeing all proceeds from our Grotto donated to help with his fundraising efforts.

"We’d like to take this opportunity to thank the local Braintree community for their generosity alongside their continued support to our stores here in George Yard.

"Funds raised from the Grotto will provide a massive help towards Ethan meeting his target and we can’t wait to present the cheque to the Braintree Rugby Club’s, Ethan Scherer."