TESCO'S Lakeside superstore welcomed 75 local people for a party run in conjunction with the borough-based volunteers from the Reengage charity.

Tesco, in partnership with Reengage, a charity that provides life-enhancing social connections for the elderly to help them tackle feelings of isolation and loneliness, has been running tea parties in the store for eight years now.  

 Tesco provides free food and beverages for all the attendees and with Reengage, holds a raffle and games of bingo, which enables the volunteers and Tesco colleagues to spend time and enjoy the company of the elderly guests.  

Loraine Coleman, Area Coordinator for Thurrock Reengage said: "On behalf of Thurrock Re-engage Charity, I would like to thank Tesco Lakeside for hosting a fabulous tea party for our guests and volunteers.   

"Guests were treated to delicious treats and a brilliant game of bingo with fantastic prizes. Everyone had a wonderful afternoon, and it was a real treat for all." 

Reengage volunteers pick up guests from their homes and return them after the party and as the groups have grown each year, Tesco and Reengage have increased their tea parties to twice a year, usually during Christmas and Easter.   

Keith Jackson, Tesco's Community Manager for East, and Midlands added: "It's brilliant to see our colleagues at Tesco Lakeside and our friends at Reengage showing such commitment to improving the lives of elderly people in the local community. 

"We are proud to work with the amazing volunteers at Reengage and hope to run another tea party during the Easter holidays."