THE Labour and Tory candidates vying to be Colchester’s next MP put their political differences aside as they met for the first time at a homeless shelter’s annual general meeting.

Pam Cox and James Cracknell were among the attendees at Colchester Engagement and Next Steps’ (CENS) first in-person annual general meeting since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

The meeting gave the charity, previously known as Colchester Emergency Night Shelter, an opportunity to thank its supporters and to share plans for the future, including a potential project to purchase additional accommodation.

The average length of a stay at the shelter is 43 nights and, despite long waiting lists, chair of trustees Alison Lovesee-Collis said 63 per cent of residents have positive move-on outcomes.

Gazette: Furry friends - Sampson and Apollo from Essex Therapy Dogs made a special appearance at the AGMFurry friends - Sampson and Apollo from Essex Therapy Dogs made a special appearance at the AGM (Image: CENS)

Attendees learned of the success of the charity’s four-bed move-on accommodation Al’s Annexe, which is next door to the main shelter.

So far 11 residents have transitioned to Al’s Annexe to live more independently and regain financial and domestic freedom, but with the security of support and advice close by if needed.

SEE ALSO: Meet the woman walking ONE MILLION steps (with her two dogs) to tackle homelessness

Labour’s parliamentary candidate and city councillor Pam Cox praised the work of the charity.

She said: “They do an amazing job of helping homeless people to find secure housing and work.

“I hope that if I get elected I can do my part in making sure that more social and affordable housing is built so that we can end homelessness altogether.”

Gazette: Event - the CENS AGM was well attendedEvent - the CENS AGM was well attended (Image: CENS)

She said it was “good to meet” her Conservative opponent James Cracknell, adding: “At a time when there is so much abuse and hostility in politics, it’s important to remember that everyone who puts themselves forward is just trying to do their best.”

Mr Cracknell echoed her sentiments, adding it was “lovely” to meet Pam and “great to see the community embracing the shelter”.

He is planning to visit the shelter in Alexandra Road to meet its residents and volunteers to better understand the challenges they face.

Colchester mayor John Jowers and New Town and Christ Church councillor Kayleigh Rippingale were also among the attendees at the event at Castle Methodist Church.