NHS front line worker Gerard Carter from Aveley has told how he was the beneficiary of an act of kindness by an unknown stranger this morning.

Gerard, from Aveley High Street, is an ambulance technician and he was wearing his uniform when he was about to pay for his shopping in to a local shop when a man stepped in and said he would buy the goods.

Gerard, who told the story to Aveley and Kenningtons Community Forum so the good deed would be recognised, says: "The man insisted on paying for my shopping. He said he so much appreciated what the NHS was doing at this time.

"It was such a nice gesture and with the money I saved I was able to by myself and a colleague a coffee and toastie from Costa Coffee to start the day on a positive!

"I would like everybody to know about such acts of kindness from this unknown gentleman. It's not just me who is grateful, it means so much to all of us."

Teresa Webster from the forum passed the news on to Thurrock Nub News and added: "The Aveley and Kenningtons Community Forum would just like to add there are some wonderful residents in our local area who are looking out for each other during this unprecedented time."