CUB scouts and volunteer leaders from Thameside Orion cub pack in Grays recently enjoyed a visit to meet Thurrock's Mayor - Cllr Susan Little.

They were treated to a tour of the new civic office building including treats in the Mayor's Parlour, a view from the balcony and a visit to the council chamber.

They got a special audience with the mayor and the chance to ask questions about bins and why their play equipment had been taken away.

The mayor answers questions.

The mayor asked them if they had heard about mudlarking and if they had ever done any litter picking (which some of them had). The cubs also explained how they earned some of their badges.

The tour was arranged following a recent visit to their meeting hall in Parker Road by the deputy mayor, Cllr Qaisir Abbas.

Cllr Abbas also met them at the Civic Offices and said "It is always a pleasure to see the cubs and scouts within our community especially after my previous visit with the Thameside Orion pack.

"I look forward to what the children and scouting has in store for you all in the future, Well done to all the adults who gave up their time to give them this opportunity. What a friendly bunch!"

The scouts each given a small gift from the mayor before heading over to Grays Beach for a picnic and time to play on the equipment.

Terry Mead, Group Lead Volunteer for Thameside Sea Scout Group said on behalf of the group: "I would like to thank the Mayor, Cllr Abbas, the staff at the civic offices and the volunteer leaders Sue Rogers, Janet Tidman and Janis Hudson for giving up their time and making our visit so special for the cubs."