Volunteers are central to the work of many charities and organisations, and volunteers week has never been more important.

Volunteers Week is the perfect opportunity to recognise volunteers who put their time, energy and enthusiasm into helping others, and those who give up their own lives to benefit others, have been thanked by the community.

Deb Huelin, councillor for communities at Thurrock Council, has thanked and praised everyone who has volunteered during the coronavirus lockdown, saying: “I have no doubt, this has helped to save lives during the Covid-19 pandemic.”