PURFLEET Community Pantry and Cafe which has been nominated for the Community Champion Award at the annual Pride of Essex Awards.

The volunteer-run pantry recently celebrated its first year of service to the community at a special birthday party, with help from Cllr Steve Liddiard, Deputy Mayor of Thurrock.

The membership-based shopping scheme allows residents to purchase a weekly top-up shop at significantly reduced prices. Members can access a selection of 10 essential items per week, usually worth around £25, for just £5.

As well as being used by Purfleet-on-Thames residents, the pantry now welcomes members from West Thurrock, Aveley, South Ockendon, Chafford Hundred and Grays.

The Community Champion Award recognises individuals or groups who consistently put the needs of others before their own, making a meaningful difference to the community.

Joanna Roberts, Rebecca Dale, and John Rowles, who have all been part of the pantry since its beginning, will attend the award ceremony at Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford on Tuesday, 14 October.

For more information on the Pantry go to: Your Local Pantry

If you're interested in volunteering in the Pantry email [email protected] or pop in for a chat.