THURROCK Labour party has responded to the outcome of yesterday's Ockendon by-election, when both they and Local Conservatives were drubbed by a massive Reform win, by thanking supporters and reaffirming its commitment to the residents of Ockendon and the wider borough.

Labour councillors say the campaign provided a valuable opportunity to listen to local concerns and share the administration's work to date.

Cllr Lynn Worrall, Leader of the Thurrock Labour Group, said: "We are all understandably disappointed by the result.

"We are incredibly proud of the honest and positive campaign we ran in Ockendon where we focused on the local issues.

"It gave us the chance to speak directly with residents about the work we've done since taking control of the council in May last year.

"We remain committed to serving the people of Thurrock and delivering the improvements residents have begun to see, especially as we enter a critical period of change.

"The upcoming devolution and and local government reorganisation programme is the most significant reform in a generation, and we will continue working hard to keep residents informed and involved every step of the way."