A family support charity has praised its volunteers as it approaches its seventh anniversary.

Laura Garnham, organiser of Home-Start Harwich, thanked volunteers who had given their time over the years.

She said: "They have all been parents themselves, so recognise the stresses and strains of having babies and toddlers but at the same time, they very much enjoy playing with children, reading to them, encouraging them in creative activities and generally helping their parents to have a bit more space."

One woman said: "Being a single parent is lonely and hard and I've been so grateful for the support I've had from Home-Start."

Home-Start, based at the Ark Family Resource Centre, in Main Road, Dovercourt, has had nearly 40 volunteers since it started.

Published Tuesday October 15, 2002

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