I often like to read the Echo newspaper along with my Thurrock Gazette as I work in Southend and visit family in Basildon, so I’m pleased to see online and paper stories which bridge our boarders.

Something that has stood out over the last few weeks is the variety of community events taking place in our neighbouring areas which seem to be grossly lacking in our area.

For instance, a hugely successful LGBT+ week-long event finishing with a festival in July is taking place in Southend, Leigh on Sea Folk Festival at the end of June, Essex Sausage and Cider Festival taking place in Billericay in August and what do we have to look forward to in Thurrock?

A quick look at the ‘What’s on’ page on Thurrock Council’s website says: Dementia friendly cinema showings and some other am-dram things at the local theatre.

Not exactly the most universally engaging menu of activities to attract tourism, or in fact, inspire local residents to stay.

BUDDY WILLIAMS

Corringham Road, Stanford-le-Hope