(L-R) Lieut-Colonels Melvin and Suzanne Fincham, Clapton Corps Captain Ruth Gray receive the visit of Labour MP Diane Abbott (R) to The Salvation Army church in Lower Clapton Road.

A local MP is off to see the work of the Salvation Army whose groups and services have become an institution in the local community.

Diane Abbott visited the charity’s office in Clapton on September 20 to see its eight year old parent and toddler group, run by local mum, Lisa Venebles.

“I have been the Member of Parliament for Hackney North and Stoke Newington for 25 years now and I have been a huge admirer, since I was elected back in 1987, of the work The Salvation Army does in communities right across the country but particularly here in Hackney,” said Ms Abbott.

The charity has its own shop and café which provides funds for local projects as well as a range of activities for all age groups.

“Historically, they have played a huge role in engaging with and serving inner city communities like my own, and they offer their support to anyone who needs it, whatever their background or beliefs,” explained the Hackney MP.

Captain Ruth Gray of the Clapton Salvation Army said: “We are pleased to show Diane Abbott MP around our toddler group.

“We find ourselves increasingly supporting people in the local community who would otherwise fall through the gaps in society.”