LifeLines annual Employers Coalition awards lunch for the employers it has worked with during 2009 was extra special this year as they celebrated 10 years and to mark the occasion Teresa May, Shadow Secretary of State for Work and Pensions was guest speaker.

Over 70 employers attended the event which gave the opportunity to network.  Chief Executive of Barking and Dagenham, Rob Whiteman said a few words about the developments and opportunities in the borough before Avril McIntyre, Chief Executive of LifeLine Projects formally started the proceedings.

The event continued by a joint presentation made by Teresa May and Avril McIntyre, before three local employers were presented awards for; community Partner; business Partner and the overall employer of the year by Teresa May.

City Pavilion won the best 'Employer of the Year' award, whilst YMCA took the 'Community Partner of the Year' award and 'Business Partner of the Year' went to Bovis BeOnSite.

Following the main event lunch was enjoyed and the opportunity for more networking continued.