The number of children living in poverty has risen to nearly a quarter in one Halstead ward.

After the cost of housing is accounted for, 24.69 per cent of children in Halstead Trinity were classed as living under the breadline, according to the Campaign to End Child Poverty.

It has risen from 22 per cent last year and compares to 15.59 per cent in Halstead St Andrew's.

The situation in the villages around Halstead were also varied, with 23.16 per cent of children in Yeldham in poverty, compared to 11.99 per cent in Stour Valley North, which includes Belchamp Walter and Bulmer.

Braintree Council is investigating the problem of poverty in the district, and has set up a committee of councillors find out how recent benefits changes have affected the poorest residents and the demand on voluntary organisations such as food banks and the Citizens Advice Bureau.

* Full story in tomorrow's Halstead Gazette.