AN afternoon of celebration took place at Ye Olde Plough House, Bulphan on Sunday (14 September) marking the impact of the Re-engage charity in Thurrock.

It recognised the tenth anniversary of the local branch of the charity that helps lonely, vulnerable and older people, the 60^th anniversary of Re-engage and 11 birthdays of its guests that happen in September.

Re-engage was founded by Trevor Lyttleton in 1965 and initially known as 'Contact', then 'Contact the Elderly', before rebranding in 2019 as Re-engage in 2019.

Emotional moments at Re-engage celebration:

Fundraising officer Lee Lloyd attended Sunday's celebration and spoke about how the charity came about and the impact it had had on him as a young man, ultimately ending in him going to work for it.

Local co-ordinator Loraine Coleman also spoke – and shed a tear as she recalled how much the charity and the guests and local volunteers meant to her and her supportive husband Mick.

Sunday was the second part of a busy weekend for Loraine.

Loraine and Mick Coleman at the BBC Essex awards.

On Saturday she attended the finals of the BBC Radio Essex Make a Difference Awards after being nominated in the Volunteer of the Year category. – which was ultimately won by George Duke, who set up the Over-60s Club in Stanford-le-Hope.

"Looking back on Saturday's event, Loraine said: "It was such an honour to be nominated. I may not have won, but I had the most wonderful evening celebrating so many inspiring people across Essex who give their time, energy and kindness to make a real difference in their communities.

"Huge congratulations to George who is such a truly worthy winner!"

Reflecting on Sunday's event she added: "It was the most fabulous afternoon celebrating our 10-year Anniversary, alongside 60 years of Re-engage UK.

A bouquet for event organiser Paula Mullooly from Loraine Coleman.

"A huge thank you to our lovely volunteer group co-ordinator, Paula Mullooly, for tirelessly planning and delivering such a wonderful celebration for our tea party guests, volunteers, and friends from local businesses and community groups.

"We were delighted to welcome Madam Mayor, Cllr Sue Shinnick and Jen Craft, the MP for Thurrock.

The celebration cake - and Loraine's BBC award.

"A very big thank you also goes to Gordon for baking and donating the beautiful celebration cake, and to Tony, our fantastic singer, who had everyone up dancing!

"We are so grateful to the restaurant staff at The Plough for looking after us so well. The room was filled with happiness, laughter, dancing, and friendship throughout the afternoon.

Mayor Sue Shinnick attended with her consort Cllr Gary Watson. Also pictured, left, is Melvyn Page, representing the Rotary Club of Mar Dyke Valley who are consistent supporters of Re-engage.

"As always, none of this would be possible without our amazing volunteers, who so kindly drive our guests and take care of them.

Birthday delight as the cakes are handed out. Lee Lloyd (right) of Re-engage joined in the applause.

"This is truly an event that will be remembered as we look forward to the next decade of Re-engage Thurrock — continuing to make a difference in our community with free tea parties that help reduce loneliness and isolation among our elderly residents."

A great time was had by all. Age proved no object to enjoyment as guests were young, foolish and happy!

Next month Thurrock Re-engage will be launching its ninth afternoon tea group, and to serve a growing waiting list for guest membership, two more groups are expected to launch in the early part of next year.

If you would like to volunteer to help by helping host events or driving guests to and from their homes, your services will be much appreciated.

You can get in touch with Loraine or Paula via the Thurrock branch Facebook page. Loraine can be called or texted on 07468 573500 or by email, [email protected]. Alternatively, follow and message them on Instagram at @reengage_thurrock

Why not sign up as a volunteer and enjoy happy times with Thurrock Re-engage?