THE police service in Thurrock has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting fath groups in the borough as part of its 'Operation Scared' initiative.

A statement from Essex Police says: "Op Sacred was created as a means for us to build upon community relationships and create a localised understanding of our faith groups within Thurrock.

"Officers from the Town Centre Team will periodically look to attend these locations, engage, provide crime prevention advice and look to create an open platform for communication and build trust within communities.

"Recently officers attended the Taleem Mosque and Community Centre, Grays and the Celestial Church of Christ in Grays.

"The officers conducted localised patrols, discussed local community issues and provided crime prevention advice."

The mosque on Clarence Road opened in June 2023, being approved by local planning officers who had rejected an initial application several months earlier.