A LOCAL MP has launched a new cafe in Stanford-le-Hope.

Stephen Metcalfe, MP for East Thurrock, helped open the Redeeming Our Communities Cafe, at the Hassenbrook Youth Centre.

ROC is a drop-in project which provides healthy activities for young people – including pool, table tennis, dance, drama, clean-up projects, classes, guitar tuition and workshops.

Mr Metcalfe said: “This is a fantastic initiative that will make a real difference to young people in the community.

“The ROC Cafe provides a safe, constructive, and above all fun space for young people to enjoy and in which they can develop new skills.”

“It is always brilliant to see local services collaborating to bring about real change. ”

For further information, visit www.roc.uk.com