A programme that helps people in Walton, Clacton Harwich and Jaywick live healthier and longer lives has been boosted by a £3,000 donation from Persimmon Homes.

The Community Voluntary Services Tendring (CVST) applied for the grant from Persimmon’s Community Champions fund to support the work they do right across the district.

The umbrella organisation hosts more than 40 activities each week ranging from yoga classes to IT support sessions, walking groups to craft activities, all designed to help reduce isolation and prevent poor health.

CVST’s cash windfall will support its Healthier Independent Longer Lives (HILL) project to continue connecting the community through weekly classes, groups and workshops.

Tracy Lawrie, Communities Manager for CVST, said: “We support around 800 people every week and by accessing our groups they are making friends, gaining independence and improving their overall health and wellbeing.”

“This funding is so valuable for us, and because we have so many selfless volunteers to run our sessions we are able to make funding go a long way. We are very grateful to Persimmon for this donation.”

Matt Atton, Land and Planning Director for Persimmon Homes Essex, said: “At Persimmon Homes we are committed to building stronger communities here in Tendring and by supporting CVST we can do just that.

“Their work gives people a purpose and a sense of belonging, and it is a pleasure to be able to support that.”