News in Thurrock

THE Rotary Club of Grays Thurrock Youth Debate competition has once again taken place at Thurrock Council offices in Grays.

Nine teams from secondary schools from within the borough went head to head on a range of topics from 'Should the death penalty be legal', 'Zoos should be banned' and 'Should plastic be eradicated'.

THURROCK residents got another chance to meet with Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn when he once again visited the borough today (Sunday, 24 November).

Mr Corbyn has been no stranger to Thurrock over recent years, visiting the marginal seat several times. Today, accompanied by Thurrock Labour councillors and a large number of activists, Mr Corbyn spoke on a number of issues including the state of the economy, Foodbanks, debt, education and Brexit.

THE final service in Thurrock's sequence of remembrance events took place at Coalhouse Fort at East Tilbury this morning (Sunday, 24 November).

Borough mayor Cllr Terry Piccolo and former Lord Lieutenant of Essex, Lord Petre, were among the dignitaries in attendance.

A SANTA'S Grotto will be created at popular Walton Hall Farm near Linford when families will be able to enjoy a pre-Christmas visit, which includes access to the play barn.

You will also be able to enjoy crafting in the Elves' workshop.

A MAN has been charged with human trafficking offences.

Christopher Kennedy, 23, was arrested on Friday 22 November in connection with a police enquiry in to the deaths of 39 Vietnamese nationals in a lorry trailer found in West Thurrock on 23 October.

RESIDENTS in the east of the borough have been reflecting on the performance of the four candidates for the coming general election.

All four took part in a hustings at St Margaret's Church, Stanford-le-Hope, organised by the local Transformation Thurrock group of church bodies when all four candidates for the South Basildon and East Thurrock constituency answered questions from local people. A total of 14 questions were asked, and on one question all agreed. Say 'no' to the current proposal for Lower Thames Crossing.

A GRAYS man is set to stand trial charged with causing the death of his brother by dangerous driving.

Joe Benton, 20, of Ashley Gardens, Grays, has been charged with causing the death of James (Jimmy) Benton.

A POPULAR community venture is seeking volunteers after the retirement of a much valued member.

After three years Diane Duhamel has retired from volunteering duties with the Friends of Hardie Park in Stanford-le-Hope.

COUNCILLORS in Thurrock are expected to approve the appointment of a new boss of children's services following arguments over how much of a say they should have over major staffing decisions.

The appointment will be discussed during an extraordinary full council meeting on Wednesday and councillors will vote to approve the appointment of a new children's services director.

RESIDENTS in Aveley who have supported fundraising events at the local Co-op will get the chance to join in a celebration tomorrow (Saturday, 23 November).

The event runs from 11am and a store staff members said: We are celebrating all the money our community has made for good causes for feel free to pop in and have a chat and see how much you have helped raise."