A GROUP of social entrepreneurs recently gathered at South Essex Colleges Waves restaurant to celebrate a year of studying with the Thurrock School of Social Entrepreneurs – from learning to pitch, to writing a business plan to understanding the market – and all the students said they had gained a lot from the course.

Supported by the London School of Social Entrepreneurs and funded by Thurrock's Riverside Community Big Local, everyone was awarded a certificate and all were acknowledged as providing future socially minded businesses.

From a re-cycled Horse Box delivering packaging free top up cereals via a collective of arts organisations determined to support people with mental health, to a keep fit motivator determined to help her community live longer; everyone had amazing ideas.

Thurrock Mayor Sue Shinnick attended and was delighted to award the certificates. She said "These types of businesses play a crucial role in the future of Thurrock."

As is traditional at this event they also held a 'Thurrock Soup' or PITCH event, sponsored by Thurrock Lifestyle Solutions CIC.

Three contenders were asked to pitch their idea to the audience who then voted for their favorite. The winner was Junior Ugwa – his cleaning company is designed to support and train those furthest away from the world of work to get back into mainstream society.