THE Riverside Community Big Local organisation in Grays has commissioned a number of benches to thank NHS workers - and other volunteers - for all they have done to keep local communities as safe and well as possible during the coronavirus crisis.

Chair of the Riverside Community Big Local, Andy Blakey, said: "We have all been humbled by the work of all those who work in our NHS. We have seen nurses, doctors, paramedics - and so many other health and care workers - making enormous sacrifices and doing an incredible job in the most difficult circumstances imaginable.

"We wanted to make sure that all our NHS, other key workers - and community volunteers - know just how grateful we are. We hope these benches are a very visible sign of our thanks and will continue to demonstrate our admiration for many years to come.

"I also want to thank Thurrock Council for their help in installing the benches for us."

The benches can be found at Grays Beach Park, Elm Road Green Open Space, Grays Town Park and in Grays High Street.