A CHRISTMAS celebration for carers in Thurrock has been cancelled because of rising concerns over Covid-19 and the new Omicron variant.

Thurrock Careers Service had arranged a Christmas party at Thurrock Yacht Club for Friday, 10 December. However, it has now been called off.

The carers service provides information, advice, practical and emotional support for anyone who is caring for another person; whether temporarily, or have been caring for a loved one for several years or more.

A statement from the service says: "Unfortunately, we have had to cancel the carers Christmas party because of rise in Covid cases in the area and potentially the new variant.

"As we all care for vulnerable people, we need to think about our health and the health of others as a priority.

"We understand that carers were looking forward to this, so we have decided to hold an event on Zoom that day instead. Full details of this event will be coming soon."