Pensions minister looks for a bargain in the East End

PENSIONERS were hoping a government minister would pick up a bargain when she dropped into to their bring-and-buy sale in the East End. Angela Eagle, Minister of State for Pensions and the Ageing Society, spent Thursday morning at St Matthias Community

PENSIONERS were hoping a government minister would pick up a bargain when she dropped into to their bring-and-buy sale in the East End.

Angela Eagle, Minister of State for Pensions and the Ageing Society, spent Thursday morning at St Matthias Community Centre in Poplar High Street as elderly residents held a sale to raise cash for Easter.

The bring-and-buy sale was part of a range of activities organised by Neighbours in Poplar and Ms Eagle also had a peek at the residents' art and met Sister Christian who runs the group.

Ms Eagle said: "The local community in this area is very strong and helps to look after older people.

"A lot of elderly people can be isolated but Neighbours in Poplar can ensure people keep connected to their friends."

The minister then dropped in to Bethnal Green where she spoke to residents in Bentworth Court with Labour's prospective parliamentary candidate for Bethnal Green and Bow Rushanara Ali.