GRAYS Labour councillor Valerie Morris-Cook has taken a leading role in a major clean-up operation in Grays, responding to numerous complaints from residents.

Cllr Morris-Cook, who represents Grays Riverside Ward, explained: "I received many complaints about the poor condition of the rear access ways serving homes on Parker, Belmont, Castle, and Rosebery Roads.

"The sheer scale of this problem is shocking. These access ways were once used by residents' vehicles to access garages and by council lorries to empty dustbins. Now, they are barely walkable.

"Everyone knows the council has no money – just a mountain of debt. There's simply no spare cash to do this clean up. However, thanks to Henderson and Taylor Ltd, who provided the financial support to make it possible as well as manpower, we started this mammoth operation on Wednesday, 20 November."

Cllr Valerie Morris-Cook with items removed from one of the access ways

So far, three tonnes of rubbish have been removed, and several fencing panels have been repaired or replaced.

Cllr Morris-Cook added: "We will be back next week for phase two. Residents know this is a one-off clean-up, it will them a fresh start; then it's their responsibility to keep these access ways clear.

"Huge thanks to Henderson and Taylor for their generosity, Advanced Building and Maintenance Services for their invaluable assistance too, and to the many local residents who came out to help and show their appreciation to the team."