AFTER several weeks of consternation and concern about the safety of borough residents at impromptu Remembrance weekend events Thurrock Council has come up with advice for local people.

However, the advice appears not to have negated concerns by one of the borough community stalwarts of local events.

David Meacham, who has organised the massively popular remembrance service in Stanford-le-Hope for many years, says he expected more positive action from the local authority.

He spoke up after a statement from the council encouraged residents to privately mark Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day this November with commemorations at home.

Cllr Deb Huelin, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: "I understand how important marking these occasions are to Thurrock's residents, but it needs to be done in a different way this year as everyone continues to play their part in stopping the spread of coronavirus.

"Remote and socially distanced Remembrance activity with private services and virtual tributes are this year being encouraged to replace traditional events and parades. Thurrock Council, with support from the Royal British Legion (RBL) Grays Branch, have taken this approach to ensure that residents honouring this anniversary are kept safe and government measures, including social distancing guidelines and event restrictions, are followed.

"Wreaths can be left at war memorials but we ask that you please avoid significant times. You can also pay your respects by standing on your doorstep for the two minute silence, and you can support the RBL Poppy Appeal by donating or purchasing poppies from supermarket tills and online.

"Please stay safe while you honour those Thurrock men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice by making a small sacrifice ourselves and celebrating in our own way at home or outdoors following government guidance."

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Mr Meacham has been trying to get the council to organise small events and manage safety but the council statement added it is unlikely to accept applications for public events where a temporary road closure is needed on the public highway.

"Any applications for public events off the highway will be considered but the event organiser will need to complete a COVID-19 secure risk assessment and ensure social distancing is maintained at all times in line with government guidance," said the council.

Mr Meacham concluded: "Unforunately I have to agree with Cllr Huelin, as Stanford Remembrance Day event will not go ahead as previous years.

"My concern is that the way the Stanford memorial is situated, anyone wishing to lay any tributes will have to 'dodge' the cars that are permitted to pass the memorial.

"I did apply for road closures and these were declined. So as organiser and secretary of the Stanford Remembrance Day event I have publicly informed through emails and social media that anyone wishing to attend at Stanford-le-Hope do so at their own risk."

Representatives of Grays RBL were asked to comment on the local issues but have not responded.