Thurrock volunteer Loraine Coleman received thanks from ‘a grateful borough’ this week for her work in supporting lonely older people in the area.

Loraine, 68, who coordinates eight of our tea party groups was inducted into the Mayoral Roll of Honour for her volunteering work over the last nine years. 

Loraine launched the first group in 2015 at St Clements Church, West Thurrock, famous for its role in the hit film Four Weddings and a Funeral. Since then she has managed to start a new group nearly every year. She now helps organise dozens of tea parties run by more than 50 volunteers. 

The honour was awarded at the offices of Councillor Kairen Raper, the 50th Mayor of Thurrock, with a citation that read: “For starting the first Re-engage group in Thurrock and developing this further to now supporting over 90 older people in Thurrock.”

Loraine said: “I was overwhelmed to be nominated for this honour. I feel really proud but I wouldn’t have got it without our wonderful volunteers who always do an exceptional job. 

“When I retired I wanted to volunteer so I could help older people and I have loved every minute of organising the tea parties. I enjoy it so much. I could never have imagined that it would grow so big. With the groups we have our own community and that’s what everyone loves.” 

Loraine was accompanied at the presentation by husband Mick, organisers Ira Gill and Clarissa Wood, and husband and wife tea party guests, Richard and June Gilbody. Councillor Mark Hooper, who nominated Loraine for the honour and is a volunteer in one of the groups, was also present. 

Loraine is poised to start a ninth group in Thurrock and is looking for new volunteers to help out.

“Once candidates come along to one of our events, they see what wonderful occasions they are and immediately sign up.” she said.