TODAY marks a key anniversary in terms of north Essex’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Colchester Anti-Loo Roll Brigade was officially set up exactly one year ago in response to the selfish clamour for loo rolls and with the simple aim of helping those in need.
The Facebook group saw kind-hearted residents join forces to help and support the vulnerable and elderly, delivering food and supplies to those in need.
Sweat treat - the winners of the Anti-Loo Roll Brigade and Fans’ Network care home Bake Off competition
In the year that followed, the project snowballed, growing beyond all recognition and now boasting a powerful 12,000 followers.
Peter Dutch was the man who got the ball rolling and says the group has become a “magical, incredible force of kindness” - a social experiment that shattered all expectations.
He added: “The Anti-Loo Roll Brigade exploded beyond my wildest dreams and it’s become a medium for facilitating kindness in Colchester.”
Much needed - masks were provided to our local care network after the Anti-Loo Roll Brigade ran an appeal with St Helena Hospice
In addition to collecting shopping and prescriptions, the group, now a fully-fledged community interest company, has distributed personal protective equipment, provided online teaching, rehoused families, provided furniture and even brightened up a care home by sending an Elvis impersonator.
We asked Mr Dutch to pick out his favourite photos from an eventful 12 months. Here are some of his choices, with more to come tomorrow.
Our heroes - the Anti-Loo Roll Brigade delivered gifts from the Bodyshop to NHS staff
Hitting the right notes - Peter Dutch and singer Sarah Louise, singing at a 109th birthday party at a care home in Colchester
Tough times - Lesley Gladwell waves to her mum, who has since passed away, after the Anti-Loo Roll Brigade arranged for an Elvis impersonator and bagpipes to be played outside her home on Mother’s Day
Party time - the Anti-Loo Roll Brigade’s mobile grotto, which visited lots of children at Christmas
Festive cheer - Sasha Antonia got in the spirit when the brigade’s mobile grotto travelled around Colchester
Icy what you’ve done there - Daisy Hughes, the winner of the brigade’s snowman competition
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