IT'S been another packed news week in Thurrock with some pretty downbeat and sad stories, but as ever, the shining spirit in the local borough community still shines through.

Take, for example, East Tilbury's fundraising hero Joanne Phillips, 54, who has recently completed three charity challenges. You can read all about her brilliant exploits via this link.

And Thurrock Nub News was on hand to capture the spirit of adventure and enjoyment from borough youngsters who have spent a week enjoying a wide range of activities at Thurrock Scouts' summer playscheme at Condovers.

Older young people had a treat in store on Friday night with the launch of a series of evening events at Blackshots. A Supreme night out was promised.

The Civic Hall is also the venue next month for a major commemorative event when Grays Thurrock Royal British Legion celebrate their 100th anniversary.

And up to 20 local forces veterans will be invited to join the event for free thanks to the generosity of local sponsors.

The service of one man to St Luke's Hospice was also recognised in a Nub News story.  Gerry Peaty has been awarded the prestigious 'Order of Mercy' and said: "It's wonderful to be recognised in this way and to be nominated by people who have worked alongside me for so many years."

It's been a good week for St Luke's, which has also announced the opening of its new facility In Thurrock – which offers a real treat for visitors.

Meanwhile the success of a local pre-school was acknowledged in our good news feature that highlighted a real community venture that has made a real difference.

Floral tributes to a lost life in East Tilbury.

Sadly there have also been some stories that make tough reading.

A 19-year-old local man lost his life in an early morning car accident in East Tilbury.

And the efforts of villagers who tried to save the life of a young horse had a disappointing outcome.

You can keep in touch with all the latest news in Thurrock from the only locally-based news platform in the borough. Keep tabs on https://thurrock.nub.news/ to be among the first to know what's affecting life in your neighbourhood.