A MEMORIAL event was held today (Sunday, 26 October) to remember the 39 Vietnamese people whose bodies were found in Eastern Avenue, West Thurrock, in 2019, having died at the hands of a criminal people-smuggling gang.

Families of the victims were joined by local faith, civic and community leaders at West Thurrock Memorial Park, Hilltop Road, West Thurrock, where a permanent memorial and 39 trees honour those who lost their lives. The service included readings, a moment of silence, and the laying of wreaths.

Cllr Steve Liddiard, Deputy Mayor for Thurrock Council said: "Six years on from the events of 23 October 2019, our thoughts remain with the families and friends of the 39 people who lost their lives.

"We stand together as a community to honour their memory, to reject the exploitation that led to this tragedy, and to reaffirm Thurrock's commitment to supporting victims and tackling organised immigration crime in all its forms."

Borough MP Jen Craft was among those who attended, including ward councillors Qaisar Abbas, Cllr Cllr Lee Watson and Cllr Aaron Green. Also present were Cllrs Val Morris-Cook, Vikki Hartstean, Cathy Kent and John Kent.

The wording on the memorial reads: "In remembrance and testimony to those who tragically lost their lives at the hands of organised immigration crime.

"Thurrock stands united in its commitment to prevent Modern Day Slavery and Human Trafficking in all its forms by providing support and protection for victims and prosecution of those who see our fellow human beings as mere commodities for trade and exploitation."

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The Memorial Park will also be in memorial mode next weekend (Sunday, 2 November) when its traditional Remembrance Day ceremony takes place.

Wreaths will be laid at the memorial at the gate of the park on London Road at 2pm.

The nearby West Thurrock Chapel will be open before and after the event.

Also taking place next Sunday will be the parade and Remembrance service at St Stephen's Church in Purfleet.