More tests have been ordered on the effect of explosions from a firing range on coastal homes.

It follows talks between MPs, a Government minister and Ministry of Defence officials over blasts at the Defence Evaluation and Research Agency in Shoeburyness.

North Essex MP Bernard Jenkin and MPs from Essex and Kent are campaigning for constituents, alarmed and angry because their homes have been rocked and damaged by the explosions.

Mr Jenkin said a meeting with defence minister Baroness Symons about the problems caused by the tests and disposal of munitions had been constructive.

Tests costing £10,000 were held this year but proved inconclusive. Further tests will be carried out at two sites in Essex and two in Kent.

Baroness Symons also agreed that weekly bulletins giving times of tests would be published.

"The minister knows the residents are not just imagining things," said Mr Jenkin.

"This time local people are to be consulted about the location of the monitoring equipment."

St Osyth and Point Clear residents have linked with people along the Thames Estuary to protest at the tests.

Owners of homes at Frinton, Holland-on-Sea, Clacton, Brightlingsea and Mersea also suffer.

"People complain about houses being shaken, windows and roofs damaged, pets and animals terrified by huge bangs which occur without warning," added Mr Jenkin.

"The ministry had denied the problem - yet has paid out compensation to those who have suffered damage."

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