Young vulnerable people living in a hostel earmarked for closure have been given a farewell party by charity staff.

Forest YMCA provides support and accommodation to vulnerable, young homeless people aged between 16 and 30 across Waltham Forest.

Ahead of the closure of Stonelea hostel in Union Close, Leyton, on March 31, the 50 residents and staff came together to celebrate their time there.

They were also invited to leave their tributes on a 'Stonelea memory board'.

Many of the 50 residents have found new homes in private rented accommodation or have been transferred to the main hostel site in Forest Road, but the charity is still looking for accommodation to home 24 of its residents.

Heather Barrow, head of resident support and accommodation said: "We are sad to be closing Stonelea, but unfortunately our lease with the North East London Foundation Trust (NELFT) is coming to an end.

"I would like to thank staff for all their hard work in the last three years – they have touched the lives of over 130 young homeless people who have come through the doors.

"Although I am deeply saddened to be closing Stonelea, I’m certain that the memories and great success stories that we’ve had in the last three years will live on."

The many young people to have stayed at Stonelea had moved from the Forest Road site and are either in education or employment.

The charity is looking to acquire and rent a minimum of six houses, with leases between three to five years in Waltham Forest or neighbouring boroughs.