The drive to encourage people to make their voices heard continued this week with a series of Thurrock Council events to mark Local Democracy Week.

Throughout the week, community groups were invited to put their details on the Democracy Tree in the Civic Offices in New Road, Grays.

Each leaf on the 8ft tree is dedicated to a local group which works with the council, showing the vast network of partnerships throughout the borough.

To add details to the tree, local groups should call 01375 652105 or email pressoffice@thurrock.gov.uk

On Monday youngsters from St Chad's secondary school in Tilbury were getting involved with local democracy with the launch of their first school council.

The school council consists of representatives from each year group, and will meet on a regular basis to discuss issues of concern.

Coun Carl Morris, cabinet member for education, was at the school yesterday (Thursday) to discuss the importance of democracy and the role the council plays in representing its people.

Council leader Andy Smith said he saw the week as just part of an ongoing process to get people involved in the key decisions affecting them.

He said: "One of our main aims is to encourage local people to play a more active part in planning the future of their community.

"Thurrock is a forward thinking local authority and has already introduced many ways for the public to get involved."

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