SHOPPERS and residents are being asked to support a community message being created in Grays.

The Morrisons 'Messages of Hope' is a unique way of expressing comment on things you would like to see improved – or to pay tribute to those who are making a difference.

Within the store in the centre of Grays you can write a message on a specially prepared strip which will then be linked by staff, including the store's community champion Tarnya Bennett, into a giant paper chain which will be displayed in store.

It is planned then to display the chain elsewhere at venues across the borough and organisations and schools are also being encouraged to pick up strips and make their own goodwill chains.

Meanwhile Tarnya is also championing another initiative at Grays, where she has organised community lunches in the cafe at the store on the first Tuesday of every month, starting 5 April.

It is an idea that follows on from the successful veterans breakfast held at the store recently.

The community lunch, which costs £10, will even include a game of bingo.

Transport to the event can be arranged. To book or learn more about the community lunches, call Tarnya on 07811 716842.