RECEPTIONISTS at St Clare Hospice were lent a helping hand on the phones by MP Robert Halfon.
Mr Halfon, the MP for Harlow, Hastingwood, Matching, Nazeing, Roydon and Sheering, spent an afternoon with the volunteers as part of his social action week, in which he visits local charities and organisations.
Helping out at the Hastingwood hospice last Tuesday, he said: "This was my second stint as receptionist at St Clare Hospice and I admire the volunteers who do this every day of the year.
"It was good to learn the phone system once again and I congratulate everyone who comes to the charity so often to ensure that the hospice has a reception that is second to none."
The hospice has a team of 25 volunteer receptionists who provide an uninterrupted service throughout the year.
Chris Crump, hospice voluntary services manager, said: "Our volunteer receptionists are on the front line providing a friendly face.
"Not only do our volunteers answer the phone, they manage our shop and carry out other tasks from filling envelopes to arranging flowers."
