The district’s MP teamed up with Samaritans on Monday to promote their annual ‘Brew Monday’ to combat loneliness.

Dame Eleanor Laing joined the charity in Epping Forest encouraging people to discuss tough issues they may be facing over a cuppa.

The coffee morning falls on what the media dubs as ‘Blue Monday’ often considered ‘the most difficult day of the year’.

Dame Eleanor said: “I’m delighted to support Samaritans in this initiative.

“Let’s make 2019 the year when we all take just a little more time to think about how we can reach out to people who might be struggling in Epping Forest."