A VOUNTEER-run pantry in Purfleet-on-Thames has celebrated its first year of service to the community with a special birthday party.

The Purfleet Pantry & Café, which launched in August last year, is a community space that aims to help residents gain better access to food and essential items with a scheme that significantly lowers the cost of their grocery shop. 

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 welcomes members from West Thurrock, Aveley and South Ockendon.

Last year's mayor, Cllr Kairen Raper, officially opened the pantry.

Over the last 12 months a total of 181 residents have joined the scheme, making between them a combined 1,100 visits.

To celebrate the milestone, a special birthday party was hosted at the pantry, which was attended by the band of local volunteers who run the pantry, as well as Cllr Steve Liddiard, Deputy Mayor of Thurrock, Cllr Lynn Worrall, Leader of Thurrock Council, and Cllr Lee Watson, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Good Growth. Local residents and councillors also came down to join in the celebrations.

The pantry began life over a year ago, when a small group of residents decided the estate needed more support for local families and residents struggling with the rising cost of living.

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The team approached Thurrock Council, which was able to provide an underused space for the project and supported its development, along with other local businesses and partners.

Jo, one of the founders, said: "We all get stuck in doing everything. You learn a lot doing this." 

Cllr Liddiard, said: "I'm proud that Purfleet's community spirit has succeeded. You've proved that resident led projects work well, due to the dedication of volunteers and partnerships support."

The Deputy Leader, who is also one of the local ward councillors, paid tribute to the team who have made the Pantry a success.

Cllr Watson said: "It is a real inspiration that a community can come together and make something happen."

The event also saw the official launch of the estate's new community garden, where locals have been busy planting flowers and vegetables.

From this coming Monday (1 September), residents from Chafford Hundred and Grays will be able to become Pantry members and attend the Monday opening days.

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

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