RESIDENTS have expressed their disappointment at the way anti-social behaviour, particularly by young people, is having a negative effect on the area's parks and open spaces.

In the wake of a relaxation of the rules on social distancing local parks have become much busier - that has not necessarily been a good thing.

Corringham has been highlighted as one of the problem areas - with Corringham Rec a particular eyesore.

One resident told Thurrock Nub News: "Please can you highlight the problem and ask people to give a little thought and respect - use the parks by all means, but take your rubbish away with you.

"In Corringham the blight on our parks has become a problem, mainly young adults partying during the afternoon and into the night.

"It's disgusting, they leave chicken bones, bottles, cans, pizza boxes, nitrous oxide canisters, weed etc. This is happening every day at Corringham recreation ground in particular.

"This morning I saw an older man clearing up around the cricket wicket. It's not the council's fault as I don't think they can keep up with the mess. I'm incensed."

And in South Ockendon, concern has been raised about a similar issue - including the copious amount of nitrous oxide canisters that are being left.

Dilkes Park has been highlighted as a particular problem area, with local Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator Michelle Kirby telling Thurrock Nub News she fears for the health and safety of young people using the oxide canisters to get a 'legal high'.

And, in the wake of a recently police social media post, she is concerned that the issue is not being given enough attention.

Thurrock police posted on social media: ""Following concerns of anti social behaviour in South Ockendon officers were on patrol in the area on Friday evening. No major issues to report. We spoke to business owners in Canterbury Parade and local residents at the Rec. No nitrous oxide cannisters or alcohol containers found at either location."

However, an earlier post this month did tell of significant nitrous oxide finds after action in the area's parks

An Essex force spokesperson couldn't comment on the situation further but did advise anyone wanting to know more about the canisters and potential dangers to visit www.talktofrank.com.

Ms Kirby would like to see a concerted effort to try and do more to educate young people and bring an end to the problems of both littering and nitrous oxide use.

Earlier this month, Corringham and Fobbing ward councillor Aaron Watkins – who is also the environment portfolio holder – highlighted the problem of littering in parks across the borough.

He said: "Following the government's relaxation of social distancing restrictions on 1 June, please remember to take care of borough parks and green spaces when visiting them, and use the litter bins provided or take litter home with you!

"We have seen increased levels of litter and rubbish, including cigarette butts, crisp packets and cans, being left next to litter bins or being dropped on the floor. If a litter bin isn't close by or is at full capacity, please dispose of your litter at home.

"Anyone who drops litter could receive an £150 fixed penalty notice or be taken to court and fined up to £2,500.

"Residents can report littering via the Thurrock Council website.

More about nitrous oxide

Nitrous oxide is inhaled.

People open the canister, transfer the gas into a container (usually a balloon), then inhale from the balloon.

Nitrous oxide slows down your brain and your body's responses, and the effects of the drug varies depending on how much has been inhaled.

Taking nitrous oxide can cause:

Feelings of euphoria, relaxation and calmness

Fits of giggles and laughter – hence the nickname 'laughing gas'

Aound distortions and hallucinations – when you see or hear things that aren't there

Nitrous oxide can also:

Give you a severe headache

Cause dizziness

Stop you thinking straight

Cause short-lived but intense feelings of paranoia Inhaling nitrous oxide directly from the canister is very dangerous because the gas is under such high pressure. It can cause a spasm of the throat muscle and stop a person breathing.