A MYSTERIOUS ‘Easter Bunny’ delivered thousands of chocolates to the residents of a village overnight.

It is the second year running that the people of Alderholt, on the Hampshire/Dorset border have woken up to the treats on Easter Sunday.  

More than 3,000 people live in the village and a source close to the person responsible described it as a “huge operation”.

Dozens posted pictures of the chocolate bunnies on Facebook and Twitter and sent thank you messages.

Naomi Adamson Wooller said: “Felt like a little kid again this morning at 2am when my dogs starting barking like crazy, got up to check and actually saw the Easter bunny walking (very fast) down the road with his basket. Bit disappointed he was too quick for me to get a pic!”

And Penny Dale described it as a “true act of kindness to unite the village” and added: “I wish I knew who you were so I could thank you – but I'm glad I don't so it remains a mystery.”

Last year was the first time the mystery benefactor left the unexpected gift on the doorstep of every property in the village.