FRIENDS of Langdon Hills and Thurrock Council's Ranger Service have come together to create a welcoming new picnic bench at Westley Heights, Langdon Hills Country Park, helping to enhance one of the area's much-loved public spaces.

Last week, local volunteers completed and installed the new picnic bench, after weeks of the teams using their time, skills and expertise, to transform additional materials into a practical and attractive community asset.

Visitors to Westley Heights can now enjoy a new place to relax and take in the views across the Thames Estuary, thanks to the hard work and enthusiasm of the local volunteers.

Thurrock Council leader, Cllr Richard Bingley, said: "This project has been a fantastic community effort and demonstrates what can be achieved when local people come together with a shared sense of pride in their community. It is a great example of how civic pride, community ownership and environmental responsibility can work hand in hand to make a positive difference to valued local spaces.

"It's wonderful to see volunteers sharing this sense of pride and using their skills to create something that local people and visitors can enjoy for years to come."