THE founder of a lifeline community service has made the "heartbreaking" decision to step away from the group.

Tiptree Community Fridge founder Michelle Olley has announced she will be walking away from her position.

She set up the project after suffering a stroke and then being hospitalised with Covid. 

Now having long Covid and fibromyalgia, she has decided to step down after her intense focus on the fridge meant her health has been worsening. 

Mrs Olley launched the service in July 2022 after realising she often had too much food left over which was going to waste.

The fridge grew to a community of volunteers helping to reduce food waste and eventually enough funds were raised to open a base at in Station Road, Tiptree.

The service has proved to be popular with residents who are passionate about reducing waste as well as supporting those who are struggling with the cost of living crisis.

Community fridge supporters flocked to social media to praise Mrs Olley, describing her as an “inspiration to all” and a “household name in Tiptree”.

The fridge, which also offers second-hand school uniforms for free and a community café service, will continue running as the remaining committee members carry on with the work.

Mrs Olley said: “It goes without saying that I am extremely upset with what’s happened and absolutely heartbroken that I’ve had to take this decision, but I’m also proud that the facility is up and running and supporting families in need.

“I personally want to take this opportunity to thank the volunteers who have come forward to help me and hope you will continue to support the fridge, moving forward.

“The village is richer for their involvement and there is so much more to come to help those facing hardship due to the cost of living crisis.”

Terri Daniels, a member of the committee said: "Michelle’s decision to leave Tiptree Community Fridge was unexpected and not something any of us wanted.

"As founder of the project, Michelle has done an incredible amount of work and has played a key role in setting up something that will benefit the community for a long time to come.

"Her vision for the community fridge has been realised and is already proving to be a great success.

"We are lucky to have an amazing group of volunteers who will continue to work with us to drive the project forward."