Comedian and TV star David Walliams has hailed the “amazing work” done by volunteers at the largest emergency food agency in Epping Forest.

3Food4U volunteer Leah St Philip arranged for the star of Little Britain and judge on Britain’s Got Talent to record a video message.

He said: “Hello everyone. It’s David Walliams and this is my little dog Ernie, and we wanted to say huge congratulations to all the incredible volunteers at 3Food4u.

“You have been doing an amazing job and we salute you, don’t we Ernie. Well done everybody.”

3Food4U has benefited from a donation after a festive concert was cancelled.

Epping Rock Choir called off its Christmas party due to Covid concerns, but rather than arrange refunds, the £300 in ticket money was donated to the charity.

Colette Dark, from the choir, said: “The organisations have much in common, both contributing to the health, happiness and wellbeing of the local community and indeed sharing a number of volunteers and members.”

Epping Forest Guardian:

Pictured just before their recent appearance at Epping Christmas Market, Rock Choir is excited to confirm its spring term will start on Monday.

With no auditions and no need to read music, Rock Choir is a community choir that is all about the joy of singing and new members are always welcome.

For more details and a free taster session, visit www.rockchoir.com.

3Food4U already has a busy schedule of community programmes in addition to its community surplus hubs, including 3MemoryCafe4U.

The next meeting will take place from 10am to midday on Wednesday, January 19 at St James’ Church Hall, Ongar CM5 9EL.

Friendly, welcoming and engaging for those with varying degrees of memory issues and those who love and care for them, 3MemoryCafe4U sessions involve singing, bingo and more with light refreshments. No booking is necessary.

Epping Forest Guardian:

3Food4U is excited to announce it will be launching 3MemoryCafe4U and free NHS health checks in Waltham Abbey in the coming months, and a free health and wellbeing class too in Loughton and Ongar.

The charity’s community surplus hubs are open as follows:

  • Monday: Waltham Abbey – 13, Sun Street - 11.30am to 1pm
  • Tuesday: Loughton – Loughton Club, 8, Station Road - 11.30am to 1pm
  • Wednesday: Chigwell Row – All Saints Church Hall, Romford Road - 5pm to 6.30pm
  • Thursday: Ongar – Zinc Arts Centre, High Street - 1pm to 2.30pm
  • Friday: Waltham Abbey – 13, Sun Street - 11.30am to 1pm

For further details, contact Pesh on 01992 842642 / 07973 166940 or email info.3food4u@gmail.com