A MUM and daughter based in Horndon on the Hill have spoken of their pride after successfully launching and filling a gap caused by the closure of Thurrock Council's meals delivery service to older residents last year.

The decision by the council to axe its schemes was a highly controversial one and drew much criticism.

However, a new 'micro-enterprise' which was created to keep local vulnerable people supplied with meals is now hoping to expand its services – possibly moving into the Basildon area.

Annette Carmody, is the driving force behind DeliverEat, a small enterprise launched in September 2021 to partner with Thurrock Council and deliver, serve, cook hot mini meals and desert fresh daily, for 37 elderly and vulnerable residents in Thurrock and Havering.

The company has two employees and six self-employed drivers delivering hot dinners daily, seven days a week at a daily cost of £7.25.

Annette says: "During the time we have been delivering we have saved lives, just because we were there at the right time, we have had customers fully recover from serious illness due to not eating and we have customers who were underweight who have now gained a nice weight (some too much).

"Our service is crucial to the elderly and vulnerable in the community and we are currently seeking new customers. Our food is freshly cooked with locally sourced ingredients and myself and my daughter, Laura Greenhill, cook daily in Horndon.

"We achieved a five star kitchen hygiene rating by Thurrock Council, which we are proud of and we have Level 3 Catering and Food Safety Certs and we are fully insured."

Anyone wanting information about the service should contact DeliverEat on 07545839126 or view its facebook page or website page www.delivereat.uk