RESIDENTS in East Tilbury have spoken of their disappointment and despair after a vandalism and arson attack on the Village Hall.

An attempt was made to start a fire at the rear of the building, which has also been covered in graffiti less than a year after it was repainted.

Though the damage is minimal, it might well have been much worse and supporters of the hall believe that unless security is stepped up, which might include better lighting and CCTV, it may only be a matter of time before more damage is done.

An accusing finger has been pointed at Thurrock Council for not supporting the hall and investing in its security.

Resident Lisa Hearn says: "If the community hall is to survive we need to look after the hall.

"A fire was attempted leading into the boiler room containing our gas supply. The council have been unhelpful and we do not want to risk people's lives. The building is owned by the council yet they are not prepared to do anything to help maintain the outside of this building.

"Only at the start of the year the building was freshly painted, now it's covered in graffiti.

"If the abuse continues we will lose the hall altogether. We need the community right now to help and to stop kids doing this sort of thing to our hall.

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"Parking is a issue also but with youths hanging around late at night. We will have no choice but to close the hall up early evening. We have no outside lighting or CCTV to protect our hall users. Councillors have been told. Thurrock Forums also are aware but maybe no one-cares anymore.

"It's time for the council and the local community to step up to the plate and make things happen or this hall will be lost to us."

Thurrock Nub News has asked the council if it has any plans for the hall and if security can be improved.