IT'S been another very busy week in Thurrock, with a host of events bringing smiles to the local community – but there have also been some contentious issues.

In a controversial move on Thursday evening, Thurrock Council's licensing committee blocked a planned music festival due to take place in Stanford-le-Hope next month.

Despite apparently meeting all the requirements put forward by police and council officers, the organisers were thwarted following a plea to ban the event by ward councillor Shane Hebb.

And there is continuing concern over the truthfulness and honesty of Thurrock Council after a litany of misdirection and unanswered questions were highlighted in out story about a failure to maintain lighting around high rise blocks in Grays. We asked: "What has happened to light of truth and pledge of transparency?"

Residents in west Thurrock are also asking questions of the council as they are concerned about the safety of their homes following a second fire close to their gardens.

And Thurrock council also found itself in the spotlight after taking a borough resident to task and threatening they might tear up his new block paving – a move criticised  by many residents.

On an upbeat tack there were some positive community events, none more enjoyed than the Picnic in the Park that took place in Tilbury.

And members of different communities and faiths came together in a special event held at Thurrock Council's civic offices and hosted by borough mayor, Cllr James Halden.

Many borough residents took part in an emotional event that continues to pay tribute to, and honour the memory of, a young Thurrock mum whose life was cut short.

And looking forward – the show will go on. September will see the return after a two year absence of the Orsett Show.