VOICES of protest continue to be raised in Stanford-le-Hope over the continued closure of the town's library by Thurrock Council.

Among those who have aired their disappointment is former library manager Jill O'Connor who says she cannot understand why Stanford remains closed, while others across the borough have now reopened, albeit some of them with reduced hours.

The council operates ten libraries across the borough and those at Aveley, Belhus (South Ockendon), Blackshots, Chadwell St Mary, East Tilbury, Grays and Tilbury are open.

Just Stanford and Purfleet remain closed. Initially those that reopened were only to service online orders but now guidelines have relaxed, residents are also being admitted and can browse.

Quite why Stanford is closed is a mystery to Mrs O'Conner, who retired last year who says: "Stanford-le-Hope Library is still shut, and hasn't reopened since original lockdown in March 2020.

"The people of Stanford deserve better than this. As former manager of Stanford Library I know just how much this library means to all ages and especially the young parents, school kids and older members of the community.

"A public library offers unique services which are too numerous to list.

"There is one staff vacancy at Stanford Library (me). I don't think I'm irreplaceable so hopefully the Council won't use that as an excuse for it not reopening yet!

"If you value your library, the one used by your parents/grandparents/kids then please petition your local councillors or make your views known to the council.

"In other areas of the Borough libraries have only reopened after petitions from the local community.....the people of Stanford have to let the council know that we realise the value of our local libraries even if the council chooses not to."