ONE of Thurrock's community champions has paid tribute to local residents who made Christmas extra special for 16 people who would otherwise been alone.

On Christmas Day the Friends of Hardie Park in Stanford-le-Hope opened the site's café to provide a Christmas meal.

The CEO of Hardie Park, Rob Groves, has described the event as 'awesome'.

The occasion was supported by a generous community with donations of food, presents, time and money helping the event take place at the cafe in the park.

A team of volunteers prepared and served a festive feast with transport provided to and from the event for 16 guests.

Mr Groves concluded: "What an awesome day we had. The holiday period can be lonely for many and an amazing group of people came together to help make Christmas a cheery experience for our guests. Donations flooded in from our supporters and volunteers offered their services on the day.

"I'd like to say a huge thank you to those who helped make it happen, the generosity of local people has been fantastic. Community action at its best."

See mor pictures from the day via the red button below.