A TEAM of local volunteers have come together to revive a much-loved historic landmark.

Coalhouse Fort is one of Thurrock's most important heritage sites, but some areas of the Thames-side Fort have become overgrown in recent years.

Engagement Officer, Kevin Diver, has brought together a team of local residents who have been meeting at the Fort every two weeks to carry out ongoing maintenance tasks.

As well as improving appearances, the work has made key areas of the fort more accessible, helping to preserve and enhance this important part of Thurrock's history.

Cllr George Monk, portfolio holder for Heritage and Culture said: "We are delighted that we have such a dedicated team of volunteers willing to support the regeneration of Coalhouse Fort. By bringing together volunteers and council services, the project is helping to safeguard this historic landmark.

"This project clearly demonstrates the positive impact of community involvement in preserving local heritage."

The volunteers' maintenance work is laying the foundations for a future programme of restoration, which aims to reopen Coalhouse Fort to the public.

Steven, one of the volunteers, said: "Volunteering at Coalhouse Fort is a great way of feeling connected to a historic site and the community. It's also a good opportunity to meet interesting people. Seeing the progress the team has made is really rewarding and I look forward to whatever comes next."

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The volunteer programme was made possible by support from Historic England and the National Heritage Lottery Fund.

The next free guided walk in Coalhouse Fort Park takes place on Thursday, 22 October at 11am. No need to book. just turn up at the gate by the cafe.

The work is part of the Reanimating Coalhouse Fort project, to discover more, go to https://www.thurrock.gov.uk/coalhouse-fort-park/coalhouse-fort.