Will You Help When Snow Arrives?

We may be in for an Indian Summer this week, with temperatures expected to reach 27 degrees, but people in Thurrock are being asked if they'd help out if snow arrives again this winter.

The county was hit pretty hard last November so the council's sending out letters now, to see if local groups would help keep roads and paths clear.

Cllr Val Morris-Cook, the council's portfolio holder for Environment, said: "The council did brilliantly last year clearing the extreme levels of snowfall on our major roads and pavements. 

"We have learned from the experience, we have listened to the concerns local people and this year we want to work with community groups to help them to clear the areas they represent.

"It won't be perfect, but we do want to make things better. The council has to concentrate on the major routes; the town centres and the paths close to schools and medical facilities - now we are offering the chance for community-minded people to support our efforts."

She added: "We know residents understand their own area best and are capable of making good decisions.

"The council can only do so much itself, but wants to make it easier for communities to help themselves.

"That is why I am encouraging all community groups to get involved and bid for their own winter maintenance kit - salt bins for their own neighbourhoods."