A charity which was nominated for a prestigious Essex County Council award have spoken about their experience of being recognised for their work.

Epping Forest ReUse on Bower Hill, Epping were one of six charities shortlisted at this year’s Essex County Council’s annual Who Will Care? Awards on Wednesday, May 22.

Established over seven years ago, volunteers provide high quality donated furniture, electrical and household items at a low cost or sometimes free for low-come residents.

Lee Tant, sales supervisor for Epping Forest ReUse, from Waltham Abbey, said it was the first time the team had been nominated for the award.

“It was a great evening,” she said. “We were unaware on the night the amount of other charities and volunteers that was out there.

“It was amazing to learn about the different people out there helping the local communities.”

Stephanie Newman of Princess Alexandra Hospital in Harlow nominated the Epping-based charity for continuing to provide essential furniture for patients when they are discharged.

Despite not bring the overall winner, Essex County Council leader Cllr David Finch, thanked everyone from their respective organisations and the individual volunteers for their continued hard work.

Ms Tant added: “We said everyone is a winner because of what we all do and without everyone services within the community would be a sadder place.

“We do so much it’s not just a normal charity that sells second-house furniture in a warehouse.

“We help people on benefits we do a three-course meal of pensioners on their own and donate so much free of charge to people who need it.”

Epping Forest ReUse holding their annual tea and cake coffee morning fundraiser on Wednesday, July 31 with the district’s MP Dame Eleanor Laing invited down to attend.

All money raised is to help those within the district who are former army servicemen and those who are battling cancer.

To make a donation or interested in becoming a volunteer for Epping Forest ReUse, please call 01992 578222.