FOLLOWING a strong community outcry, rocks and bricks that were glued to a pavement to keep a homeless man from taking shelter have been removed.

Yesterday (Thursday, 7 December), Thurrock Nub News reported on the action to fix the bricks to paving outside amber Court in Corringham, which is one of the places a homeless man who frequents the town sleeps.

The move was criticised by local councillor Gary Byrne who called on Thurrock Council to intervene.

Cllr Byrne said: "In these tough times it would be nice to see a bit of compassion and understanding to someone less fortunate than ourselves and to be honest I don't like to see this. It's not a very nice thing to do in the season of goodwill to all!"

He called on the council to intervene, if only on the grounds that the rocks and bricks were a trip hazard - but by this morning they were gone.

It is not known who put them there in the first place, or who removed them but Cllr Byrne says he is not worried about the mystery, he's just glad thay are gone.

He praised Thurrock Council, whose officers advised they would write to the site owners, saying: "Officers told me they would be sending a letter to the owner and I am grateful for that quick action. The letter will still serve as a warning.

"I am just pleased they have gone. Residents shared my anger that this had happened and I am pleased to say that their reaction shows what a caring community we do have."