A TRIBUTE has been paid and thanks expressed to a Thurrock student who is supporting a local charity that helps older folk.

Lillie Murrell is a student at Hathaway Academy in Grays where she is head girl.

Lillie volunteers for the ReEngage charity which works within local communities to set up regular social gatherings for small groups of older people who are otherwise on their own.

Loraine Coleman, the Thurrock ReEngage co-ordinator says: "Lillie is a very inspirational young lady and we are very lucky to have her volunteering with us at ReEngage Thurrock.

"She has just made a very generous donation to cause, donating a grant she received from the Jack Petchey Foundation achievers network which recognises outstanding young people. Thank you so much Lillie."