Snooker star Ronnie O'Sullivan stepped forward to support his community over Christmas alongside several hard-working, caring volunteers.

Two of Waltham Forest's most inspiring community projects, The Hornbeam Centre and The Gleaners Community Cafe, have been supporting residents with hot nutritious meals throughout the pandemic.

The Gleaners has served more than 30,000 mostly free meals while Good Deeds on Bikes have delivered more than 7,000 meals and nearly 3,000 grocery bags, made by the Hornbeam Centre.

On Christmas Day, Mr O'Sullivan received an invitation to hand out meals and bags to those in need, which the keen runner accepted.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series: Ronnie O'SullivanRonnie O'Sullivan

He said: "I really enjoyed the day doing my bit for a great cause. So many people are grateful for what the volunteers are doing here. The food is tasty and it's great to put a smile on people's faces and to help where possible."

Meals are cooked daily by a team of volunteers with quality ingredients donated from businesses and organisations such as Today Bread on Hoe St, OrganicLea in Chingford, The Felix Project and City Harvest.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series: Outside The Hornbeam in WalthamstowOutside The Hornbeam in Walthamstow

Volunteer Aileen Cooney said: "At the cafe we provide hot meals and groceries on a pay-as-you-feel basis, which has established a wonderful sense of community among volunteers and our customers.

"I feel this is especially important in a time where a lot of us may otherwise be feeling isolated. The pandemic has been hard but volunteering at the cafe has shown me the best in people."