THE Grays Riverside Community Big Local group has been distributing gifts to NHS staff, careers and vulnerable members of the local community.

Big Local Project worker Teresa O'Keefe says: "We have continued to collect generous donations across the borough from local organisations.

"This week we were once again invited to collect more donations from the lovely people in the catering team at South Essex College at both Southend and Thurrock.

"As the college hasn't been able to reopen yet there were lots of cakes, biscuits, crisps and more looking for a good home. They didn't have to wait long and much of their generous donations one to stock up the paramedic ambulance tea station.

"We also passed on a fantastic selection of bouquets and lovely bread donated by Marks and Spencer store in Lakeside. These have all made many hardworking people very happy.

"Today (Saturday, 2 May) I gave most of the cakes and crisps kindly donated by South Essex College, to Bluebell Court in Grays. The staff were very grateful and plan to use the cakes for afternoon tea for the residents.

"It is great being able to help so many people and sometimes we get to help the local wildlife. Some lovely ladies heard my plea for disinfectant and dog food for the local Essex Wildlife Hospital and I delivered their donations this week to heartfelt thanks from the staff there.

"It served as a reminder that during this difficult time, it is not only humans that are suffering; our furry friends need more of our love and support too."