RESDIENTS in Aveley have responded positively after a theft that shocked the local community.

As reported over the weekend on Thurrock Nub News, a bench and table was stolen from the newly created public space in Aveley Recreation Ground.

In the aftermath resdients committed to raising funds to replace the bench, stolen just one week after it was installed and days before it was due to be officially opened during St George's Day celebrations.

A fundraising page, which can be reached here https://www.gofundme.com/f/aveleys-hidden-gem-replacing-the-stolen-bench had already accrued more than £600 towards a £1,500 target.

The 20-person recycled-material bench had been placed in the village's Hidden Gem community space by volunteers Keith Levett, Terry and the Aveley Hub — it stood for just a week and had only just received a plaque sharing the story of Aveley before it was stolen, along with damage to brand new fencing and stolen posts

The space features a mural covering a once-neglected concrete wall showing scenes from Aveley's history, has already been enjoyed by a local nursery and Beavers group, and volunteers are building a children's den — the theft happened days before the planned official opening.