IT'S been a week dominated by protest in Thurrock, with campaigners from the JustStopOil almost encamped in the borough, occupying tunnels built under local access roads and then accusing the authorities of putting their lives at risk by not stopping traffic.

Ultimately the protesters' action is likely to end up in a number of court cases and Thurrock Nub News was present on Thursday when a group of the campaigners picketed Grays police station to offer support to a few of their number who were set to be arrested.

And local Royal Mail workers have also been making their voices heard in protest.

We visited the picket line at the Grays sorting office on Wednesday to talk to workers who feel aggrieved and fear for their future and the mail delivery service.

And there is also anger and frustration as Thurrock Council ploughs ahead with its plans to charge for parking at the historic Coalhouse Fort site.

Local ward councillor Fraser Massey told Nub News why it's still important that local people protest and make their views known.

Residents are also being urged to have their say in a bid to stop a planned expansion of Orsett Quarry – a planning application that has entered its third year and is moving towards a point where decisions will have to be made.

Grays residents learned this week that the possibility of a 1,00 home residential estate on their doorstep won't be happening – but instead they will get a industrial park in place of the historic chemical works alongside Hogg Lane.

On the good news front we were able to report on a successful fundraising effort by a group of local knitters – backed by local businesses to provide a boost for a children's charity.

And there was the heart-warming story of youngster Anna-Rose who got a message from the Queen.

The people of Stanford and Corringham had a weekend to remember with a successful carnival and town centre event. A procession wound its way between the two towns and raised a huge amount for good causes.

Taking part in the procession was borough Mayor Cllr James Halden and he was also responsible for more good news stories – recognising the work of local scouts and also honouring some of the veteran members of the borough's community.