THURROCK Council is celebrating the invaluable contribution volunteers make to the local community as part of marking national Volunteers' Week (Monday 1 June to Sunday 7 June).

On Tuesday 2 June, Cllr Bill Cook, Mayor of Thurrock, hosted a special event at Aveley Library to thank many of the hard-working volunteers who support our council, community organisations and charities.

There are a host of local people who give up their time and energy to support the council's work in our communities in many unique ways.

Cllr Cook said: "This week is an opportunity to pause and recognise every volunteer's contribution, no matter how large or small. One of the great things about volunteering is that everyone's time is equally valuable, and many of our services would not be able to run as they currently do without your support."