A SERVICE which is a “lifeline” for many residents has opened the doors at its permanent premises.

Councillors, residents and Chase from Paw Patrol attended the official opening for the Tiptree Community Fridge in Station Road in Tiptree.

The site has been given a food hygiene rating of five in its recent inspection.

Founder Michelle Olley said: “It has been a lot of hard work for myself and the team of trustees but opening and being there every day this week I have met people who have spoken about their difficulties with the cost of living and how this service is such a lifeline.

Braintree and Witham Times:

“It makes all the hard work so worthwhile.”

Trustees Michelle, Terri Daniels and Alana Rush showed councillors Roger Mannion, Barbara Wood and Jonathan Greenwood around the new premises.

Mrs Olley said: “We had a really positive response from all the residents who visited us.

“The ribbon was cut by Oliver Bird from Baynards Primary School who designed the new logo for the Community Fridge.

“He was joined by his mum Paula Bird and his sister.

Braintree and Witham Times:

“The volunteers were thrilled to meet him and thank him for his beautiful artwork depicting a fridge being cradled in hands with the colourful words for Tiptree Community Fridge arching over the fridge.

“The team of volunteers were on hand to explain to the residents who visited that the food and school uniform on display was all available free of charge.”

She added: “The Community Fridge is waging a war on food waste with the help of all residents.

“It is open to everyone and encourages everyone to come along before going shopping to pick up eggs, bread, meat, vegetables and store cupboard items.

“We are working in partnership with Argent FM to run the premises and are supported by food producers including Wilkin and Sons, Wigborough Meats, Wick Manor, Tiptree Eggs, Maldon Fruit, Zeelandia and most recently Marriage Flour.”

If you would like to supply food to the community fridge and avoid food waste, please contact them via email at tiptreecommunityfridge@aol.com or via their Facebook page at Tiptree Community Fridge.