UKIP councillor Tim Aker MEP has donated hundreds of pounds to Thurrock charities for Christmas.

Cllr Tim Aker MEP said: “The motto of the Aker Foundation is ‘from Thurrock, for Thurrock’. When I was elected to Thurrock Council I said I would give my allowances back to the community.

“This year we have successfully run a free bus from Aveley to Romford every Friday and donated to fund the incredibly enjoyable Aveley Christmas Market.

I am therefore delighted that this Christmas I am able to announce several grants of £250 each to some incredibly worthy causes, which include:

– Thurrock Foodbank
– Thurrock Centre for Independent Living
– Open Door
– Thurrock Stroke Club
– Mates with Plates
– St Luke’s Hospice

“Times are tough for the voluntary sector at the moment and thousands of people rely on them for help and advice. Cuts in Local Government funding and a very challenging grant environment have left many local voluntary organisations in a precarious financial position.

“If you are considering making a donation this year why not consider donating to some of the wonderful voluntary organisations operating in Thurrock. Organisations delivering quality services to residents across Thurrock, often on shoe-string budgets. Together we really can turn Thurrock around.”