Sixthform students gave pensioners’ a right old cockney knees-up on Thursday at the end of a fortnight of Jubilee parties in London’s East End.

The shindig at Poplar’s St Mathias community centre was organised by Sister Christine Frost from South Poplar Action on Housing with her Tower Hamlets College neighbours.

Catering and hospitality students from the college provided Jubilee-theme treats including sandwiches, tarts and cakes and laid on music to get in the jubilee spirit.

One pensioner, Pat Coulson, enjoyed the music and food while embroidering a quilt.

“I’m making this for Sister Christine,” she said. “Everyone has signed this.

“I’ve been in the community groups since January when I lost my son—it’s been a wonderful support network.”

The party was part of a programme with students working in the community. Eventually the idea is to invite residents into the college to use its facilities and meet more students.