AN appeal and collection point aimed at helping quell the impact of domestic violence opened at a Thurrock store today..

A short ceremony marked the launch of the Love Grace collection event at the Co-op's Socketts Heath store in Grays. Staff at the store have been working with the family of murdered backpacker Grace Millane who was killed while travelling in New Zealand in December 2018.

Today's event was previewed on Nub News here.

Among the first to donate were Thurrock Hockey Club, who have been thanked for their kindness and support by the store's Member Pioneer and community co-ordinator Claire Mason.

The store will collect donated items (see link above) and then pass on to the charity which distributes handbags filled with essential items to women who have suffered abuse.