REENGAGE Thurrock is celebrating the fifth anniversary of its first tea party group this month.

'Thurrock 1' was launched in September 2015 in the grounds of St Clement's Church in West Thurrock. The deconsecrated church, famously home to the funeral scenes in iconic film Four Weddings and a Funeral, is owned and maintained by neighbouring Procter & Gamble who donated £200 to the charity which was named Contact the Elderly at that time.

ReEngage Thurrock now has eight thriving tea party groups supported by volunteer group co-ordinators, drivers and tea party hosts. Without the dedication of the volunteers the tea parties could not take place – though they are currently suspended due to coronavirus.

However, last week those supported by the group were treated to a hamper delivery at home.

Charity area coordinator Loraine Coleman says: "A big thank you to all our fabulous volunteers, friends, local businesses and community groups for their huge generosity enabling us to be able to treat our guests over the last five years to special tea parties, summer outings and Christmas festivities."