THE leader of Basildon Council has paid tribute to people from across the borough who have dipped into their pockets and helped the authority raise money for local people who lost earnings over Christmas because they were unable to work in the hospitality industry.

Speaking to residents via social media, Cllr Callaghan rounded up a number of issues that had affected residents in the borough in the past week and updated them on some council projects.

He was clearly particularly proud of Mayor Cllr David Burton-Sampson, charity trust's 'Keep The Lights On' appeal which smashed its target and brought in £35,000.

Cllr Callaghan said: "I would like to say a huge thank you to every single person who put their hand in their pocket and helped us raise £35,000 to help those casual workers."

The leader also praised members of the council's staff who have been pushed to the limit to combat the adverse weather over the past week.