Jessica Day-Parker

Tilbury Road in West Horndon is closed for two weeks until September 5 while Essex Highways resurfaces the carriageway and repairs or replaces manholes and gullies. The closure affects the road off the A127, and drivers are being directed along a 16-mile diversion through the A127, Basildon, the A13 and surrounding roads.

A person died after an incident on the tracks at Benfleet station shortly after 9:30 p.m. on August 18. British Transport Police and paramedics attended, but the person was pronounced dead at the scene. The death is not being treated as suspicious, and a file will be prepared for the coroner; a cordon was placed around the station as emergency services responded.

Aldi will open a new supermarket at Rayleigh Weir Retail Park on September 17 after refurbishing the former Carpetright and Argos units. The store on Stadium Way is expected to create up to 40 local jobs and combine the two vacant units into a larger supermarket. Castle Point Council approved plans for the merged premises and its signage, while construction has continued through the summer.

A new Suzuki dealership has opened on Orsett Road in Grays, Thurrock, as part of Brayleys Cars Ltd’s expansion into two additional UK locations, the other being Milton Keynes. The site provides new-vehicle sales, servicing, maintenance and aftersales support, and is expected to create two jobs for a technician and service adviser. Suzuki GB and dealership managers highlighted the expansion, the brand’s reputation for quality and reliability, and the aim of providing more convenient local customer access.

Essex Police are appealing for information to locate 15-year-old Akejah Baptiste, who was reported missing from the Hereford Walk area of Basildon on 21 July and has had no contact with anyone for four weeks. Police believe he may still be in Basildon and ask anyone with information to call 999, quoting incident 1280 of 21 July.

Meadow Croft Garden Centre in Battlesbridge warned that part of Woodham Road would be closed from August 17 to August 21 for planned UK Power Networks works. The garden centre said it would remain open and could be accessed via Wickford Road, while motorists were asked to allow for disruption and delays.

A multi-vehicle crash involving at least four vehicles closed part of the A13 between Sadlers Farm and Pitsea Flyover in south Essex. One person was taken to hospital as a precaution, and Essex Police confirmed that five ambulances appeared to attend. Vehicle recovery caused severe delays, with average speeds falling to about 5 mph and delays reaching up to 38 minutes.

A fire at a metal recycling centre on Station Road in East Tilbury disrupted c2c services across the network. Around 40 firefighters worked overnight to contain the blaze, which continued to produce heavy smoke and was complicated by limited water supplies. Services through Grays were blocked, with major delays, cancellations and timetable changes expected until midday. c2c introduced a shuttle between Upminster and Grays, replacement buses between Upminster and Pitsea via Ockendon, and diversions for trains between Shoeburyness and Fenchurch Street. Nearby residents were advised to keep windows and doors closed because of the smoke.

A yellow heat health alert is due to take effect across Essex and the wider East of England as temperatures are forecast to reach 33°C, marking the county’s fifth heatwave of 2024. The alert follows four earlier heatwaves linked to drought, wildfires and more than 2,800 excess deaths during the hottest periods in May and June. Exceptionally dry conditions have pushed England’s reservoir storage below the long-term average, with Hanningfield Reservoir in Essex only 60% full, while the Fire Severity Index could reach its highest level across eastern and south-eastern England. The National Trust is urging the public to support a petition for stronger government climate action.

Seymour Road in Westcliff was identified as Southend’s most expensive street in 2026, with properties averaging £1.38 million, while Prince Avenue, home to Princes Court, was the least expensive at an average of £82,000. The rankings were based on Property Solvers’ analysis of HM Land Registry data from the previous 12 months. The average property price across Southend increased by £4,026, with most sales falling between £276,000 and £372,000.

Blue Inc has opened a new store at The Royals Shopping Centre on Southend High Street, selling affordable everyday clothing and trend-led fashion. The retailer, founded in 1912 and rebranded in 1997, once operated more than 100 UK stores before entering administration in 2016 and subsequent years. After being acquired by Rerun Limited in 2019, Blue Inc has been relaunching stores and now operates 41 locations, with the Southend opening forming part of its effort to rebuild its high-street presence.

A lost puppy that escaped from a nearby garden was found near Southend Pier during low tide, prompting an almost two-hour search by HM Coastguard, Essex Police and Essex Fire and Rescue Service. The dog was eventually rescued from the water as the tide rose, checked by a vet through Tillys Angels volunteers and found to be in good health, with arrangements underway to reunite it with its owners.

Smoke visible from Southend and above Southend Pier was traced to a wildfire on the Isle of Grain near Rochester, across the Thames Estuary. Kent Fire and Rescue Service advised people in the affected Rochester area to keep windows and doors closed. Ten fire engines, a bulk water carrier and a utility terrain vehicle were attending as crews worked to contain the fire and smoke drifted across the estuary.

Hockley Medical Practice, which operates The Jones Family Practice in Hockley and Church View Surgery in Rayleigh, will discontinue its trial of the EMMA AI telephone receptionist after receiving patient feedback. From September 1, 2026, calls will be answered by staffed switchboards that transfer callers to the appropriate department, although short waits may occur and switchboard staff will not handle clinical or administrative queries directly. The practices said the change is intended to provide a more personal and responsive service.

Two lanes at the A13 London Road and Tarpots junction in Benfleet were reportedly blocked during a large emergency response. Police closed one Southend-bound lane, while a fire engine blocked another lane in the London-bound direction. Several fire engines and police vehicles were at the scene, but the nature of the incident had not been confirmed.

Hockley Woods in Hockley, Essex, was cordoned off after emergency services responded to reports of a sudden death on Bullwood Road. A man in his 40s was pronounced dead, and Essex Police said the death was unexpected but not suspicious. Specialist officers are supporting the man’s family, and a file will be prepared for the coroner.

Overnight resurfacing of the A13 at Tarpots junction in Benfleet is scheduled from August 14 to 22, requiring both-direction closures between 8:15pm and 5am. The work follows Cadent’s gas-main project, which caused major traffic disruption but lifted its full closure weeks ahead of schedule. Lane restrictions will remain while the final phase of the gas-pipe replacement, involving nearly 800 metres of ageing metal pipes, is completed by August 30.

A police officer suffered head and knee injuries after being struck from behind while patrolling Gunners Park in Shoeburyness at around 9 p.m. on August 4. The suspects reportedly fled toward Magazine Road, and Essex Police is asking witnesses or anyone with information to contact the force.

Tesco has applied to Castle Point Council for a premises licence for a new Tesco Express at 218 High Street in Canvey. The proposed store would operate daily from 6am to midnight, following approval to convert a former car showroom into a convenience store. Plans include partial demolition and an extension, 17 parking spaces, three cycle spaces, and an expected 10 full-time jobs.

Almería Airport in Spain is scheduled to close for six days in February 2028 for runway upgrades as part of a €29 million, 19-month improvement project. Flights during the closure will be cancelled, potentially affecting easyJet’s seasonal direct service from Southend Airport, as well as routes operated by Ryanair, Iberia and other airlines from several UK airports. Travellers are advised to consider alternative airports such as Granada-Jaén and Málaga.

Lisa Fryett from Canvey died on July 28 after she and her partner, Simon Batchelor, were rescued from a mountainside wildfire near Bédar and Los Gallardos in southern Spain. Both had been in critical condition after being taken to hospital. A GoFundMe appeal has raised more than £65,000 to support the family with travel, accommodation and other expenses, while relatives continue to seek support for Batchelor, who remains critically ill.

Around 45 residents were evacuated from homes in Southend Road, Great Burstead, Billericay, after contractors damaged a gas pipe at a nearby development site. Essex Fire and Rescue Service advised residents to remain indoors with doors and windows closed because wind direction could change, while the road remained closed. Cadent engineers and other emergency services worked to stop the gas escaping and inspect nearby properties; residents were urged to report suspected gas smells to the national emergency service.

The National Lottery Lotto draws for Saturday, August 1, 2026, produced two sets of winning numbers, with bonus balls 29 and 27. The estimated jackpot was £5.9 million after no winner in the previous draw, and no player won the £1 million prize for matching five numbers plus the bonus. The Thunderball numbers and Thunderball number were also published.

Essex Police have imposed a dispersal order across central parts of Southend, including the High Street, Marine Parade, major railway stations and shopping centres, to address loud and disruptive large groups. The order allows officers to direct people suspected of causing or likely to cause anti-social behaviour to leave the area for up to 48 hours, with failure to comply being an arrestable offence. Police stressed that Southend is not a no-go zone and that the measure targets only those engaging in anti-social behaviour.

Fire crews responded to multiple woodland fires near Third Avenue and Todd Brook in Harlow, where flames spread into a derelict building and nearby field. Essex Fire and Rescue Service believes the fires were started deliberately and warned that hot, dry conditions had left the countryside highly vulnerable. The service urged anyone with information about suspected fire-setting to report it anonymously through FireStoppers, stressing the risks to lives, homes, wildlife and businesses and the strain on emergency resources.

A joint Essex Police operation targeting anti-social and dangerous driving at Basildon’s Festival Leisure Park checked 287 vehicles. Officers issued two careless-driving tickets, one insurance ticket and two MOT-related tickets, conducted six roadside breath tests and seized a nitrous oxide cylinder. Police said the operation aimed both to enforce traffic laws and reassure residents, with Special Constables providing additional support.

Two burst water pipes in Ingrave near Brentwood have caused temporary traffic lights on the A128 Brentwood Road and at its junction with School Lane. Essex and Suffolk Water is working around the clock on repairs and warns of delays between Brentwood and Herongate, advising motorists to allow extra travel time.

A fox became entangled in netting on the roof of a waste collection van and was rescued by South Essex Wildlife Hospital staff near Orsett. Although the leg injury was less severe than expected, veterinary checks found a dental abscess requiring treatment, and the fox remains in the hospital’s care.

Daniel Day, a 30-year-old pro-Palestine protester from Westcliff, was sentenced at Southwark Crown Court to 14 months in prison suspended for two years after climbing the Elizabeth Tower barefoot and remaining there for 17 hours while livestreaming his protest. The stunt caused extensive emergency-service deployments, road closures, cancelled Parliament tours and an estimated £92,000 in public costs. Day was convicted of causing a public nuisance and pleaded guilty to trespassing on the Palace of Westminster and Portcullis House. He must complete up to 20 rehabilitation days and wear an electronic monitor for four months; the judge cited the planned nature of the offence and lack of remorse but also considered his failing eyesight and lack of subsequent offending.

A guide to 25 affordable ways for families to spend the summer holidays in Southend, including beaches, splash fountains, parks, woodland walks, museums, galleries, events, cycling sessions and workshops. Many activities are free, while paid options such as the Route 99 bus and crazy golf are presented as costing less than £30 for a family of four.

Essex and Suffolk Water urges customers to reduce water usage as dry weather persists and hosepipe bans take effect elsewhere in the region. The company reports closely monitoring supplies and supports the nationwide Let's Save Water campaign, which promotes simple conservation measures. Anglian Water has already imposed restrictions, and authorities classify East Anglia as experiencing prolonged dry conditions.

A 17-year-old girl from Hockley was arrested on suspicion of assault after a man was chased and later seen with a head injury on Oakleigh Park Drive in Leigh. Essex Police are seeking to locate the injured man and continue their investigation, asking the public for information or footage related to the incident. The teenager was released on conditional bail while enquiries remain ongoing.

Ryanair warns Southend Airport passengers of potential hours-long delays at several European destinations due to problems with the EU’s new Entry/Exit System, citing inadequate airport staffing and incomplete self-service infrastructure. The airline urges travellers to allow additional time and supports calls to extend system flexibility into 2027. easyJet also cautions passengers that extended waits may prevent delayed travellers from being accommodated.

Police responding to reports of dangerous driving on Wickford High Street found nitrous oxide canisters in a black Mercedes and determined all four occupants were involved. The individuals admitted responsibility and received Community Resolutions, a non-recorded outcome for lower-level offences. Officers confirmed checks were made on the driver's fitness to drive and thanked the public for reporting concerns.

The Dick Turpin pub on the A127 in Wickford has been listed as under offer after being closed since July 2024. Formerly operated by Greene King, the property returned to the market two months ago through WTS Property Consultants with a £950,000 asking price. The site covers 1.28 acres, has extensive indoor and outdoor facilities, and is highlighted as having significant redevelopment potential. Previous plans for a petrol station and drive-through coffee shop were rejected. The location draws heavy daily traffic, and the venue’s licensing allows late alcohol sales on weekends.

Scott’s of Southend is partnering with The Chop Shop Butchery to open a new food hall offering locally sourced produce, baked goods, and a deli counter. The development is part of a broader expansion that includes wellness facilities, padel courts, and newly added businesses such as Little City, Slim Ricks, and Dog Oasis. The Chop Shop, recently awarded best new business at the UK Small Business Awards, will provide meats, pies, and deli items, with the food hall expected to open by the end of August.

An inquest has been opened into the death of 18-year-old Tallulah Bradford, who suffered fatal injuries in Chalkwell Park in an incident involving a loading vehicle reportedly driven without permission. Two teenagers have been arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and bailed while Essex Police continues its investigation. The coroner suspended proceedings pending further inquiries, and Bradford’s family and friends issued emotional tributes. Police are appealing for witnesses and any relevant footage to assist the investigation.

A new transport link from Basildon and Laindon to the Elizabeth Line will begin on July 26 as First Bus Essex extends its B1 route to Harold Wood. The service will run frequently throughout the week, with journey times of up to 40 minutes to Harold Wood and 50 minutes on return trips. The route will operate via Basildon Bus Station and Laindon before travelling directly along the A127 to connect with the Elizabeth Line toward central London and Heathrow.

Vue Basildon will screen England’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina live at 8pm, offering a cinematic atmosphere with large screens and enhanced sound. Vue venues across the UK will also show the semi-finals and final, with high demand expected as England competes for a place in the final. A Vue manager highlights the immersive experience for fans not travelling to Atlanta.

A collision involving two cars struck the Anchor Inn pub in Benfleet, prompting fire crews and ambulance services to respond, though no serious injuries were reported. The pub reopened shortly after, assuring customers it would continue normal operations, including showing the upcoming England football match. The crash caused temporary road closures and traffic disruption, and local MP Rebecca Harris noted relief that injuries were minor.

A large waste fire off Launders Lane near Aveley prompted the closure of the A1306 as eight fire engines and about 60 firefighters worked overnight to control the blaze. Accessibility issues due to waste piles slowed efforts, but most of the fire was extinguished by early morning, with crews continuing to dampen hotspots while two engines remain on-site and the road stays closed.

Police are searching for 14‑year‑old Franke, who was last seen in Croydon on July 11 and has connections to several areas including Southend. He was wearing a grey and white top and has an artificial airway. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact them, quoting reference 8919/11JUL26.

Coastguard officers in Southend responded to 13 incidents in a week, including drifting vessels, unexploded ordnance reports, beach injuries, a road traffic accident and people cut off by tides. A missing person search ended safely with the individual transferred to ambulance service care. Authorities issued safety guidance for beach visitors, urging caution with tides, inflatables and water activities, and recommending supervision of children and preparedness measures for emergencies.

Specialist training from Stratford Butterfly Farm has enabled Sealife Adventure in Southend-on-Sea to introduce new tropical butterfly species and upgrade its Tropical House with improved humidity controls. The training confirmed the zooquarium was already providing strong care standards, requiring only minor adjustments. The facility features more than 40 themed displays, including marine life, monkeys, meerkats, penguins, and otters.

Katie Amess paid tribute to Ann Widdecombe following the former Conservative minister’s death, praising her long friendship with Sir David Amess and her support for the family after his murder. Widdecombe was found dead in her Dartmoor home, and police are treating the case as suspected murder. The two had been close colleagues for more than two decades, with Widdecombe serving as godmother to one of Sir David’s daughters. Condolences were extended to her family and friends.

Winning numbers for the Lotto, Thunderball and HotPicks draws on July 11, 2026 are listed, along with jackpot details and information on recent Millionaire Raffle winners, with no jackpot winners in either main Lotto round.

GP practices in Rochford were ranked by patient satisfaction in the 2026 NHS GP Patient Survey, with Conner and Partners achieving the highest rating at 94 percent and William Harvey Surgery receiving the lowest at 61 percent. National satisfaction rose to 76.7 percent, continuing a two-year upward trend. Health Secretary James Murray and NHS England’s Dr Amanda Doyle attributed the improvements to enhanced access, upgraded phone systems, expanded online services, and increased use of the NHS App.

Armed police responded to reports of suspicious behaviour involving a man with a knife in the Hamlet Court Road area, entering a nearby property and arresting two men on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon. Officers seized a knife, and the men remain in custody. A senior Southend commander stated the rapid response ensured public safety, and police are seeking further information or footage from the public.

Canvey Recycling Centre on Canvey Road closed unexpectedly due to an unspecified incident, with officials indicating it will remain shut for the rest of the day. Love Essex issued an apology while no details about the incident have been disclosed. Nearby recycling centres in Pitsea and Rayleigh are available, and the site operates under the Essex Waste Partnership with oversight by the Environment Agency.

Survey results show Dr Sims and Partners as the highest-rated GP practice in Basildon with 90 percent of patients reporting a good overall experience, while Chapel Street Surgery and Murree Medical Group ranked lowest at 43 percent. Several other practices scored between 56 and 84 percent, providing a full ranking of local GP satisfaction levels. Nationally, overall patient satisfaction with GP services rose to 73 percent, with the health secretary highlighting improvements in access and experience.

Patient satisfaction results from the 2026 NHS GP Patient Survey show Dr Bekas Medical Centre and Warrior Square Surgery as the highest-rated practices in Southend, each receiving 92 percent positive feedback. Scott Park Surgery follows closely with 91 percent, while Dr Kumar & Partner at Shoebury Health Centre ranks third at 88 percent. At the lower end, Thorpe Bay and Shaftesbury Avenue Surgery and The Practice Northumberland Avenue both received 56 percent. Nationally, satisfaction has risen to 73 percent, with the health secretary citing continued progress in improving patient experience.

Police responded to a three-car collision on Rayleigh Road near Rayleigh Weir, leading to a temporary road closure. An air ambulance, paramedics, and the fire service attended, though no injuries were reported. The road was reopened by early afternoon, and emergency services were contacted for further comment.

A burst water main near the Fortune of War roundabout on the A127 has been repaired, though a single-lane closure will remain in place until Tuesday while the road surface is reinstated. Essex and Suffolk Water said water supplies and pressure are being restored and thanked residents and road users for their patience during the disruption.

A grassland fire in Ongar, Essex was sparked by a camping barbecue, prompting warnings from fire officials about outdoor safety in dry and windy conditions. Crews from Ongar, Chelmsford and Billericay quickly contained the blaze, preventing it from spreading to nearby tents, gas cylinders, vehicles and solar panels. Essex Fire and Rescue Service urged the public to use barbecues safely and follow disposal guidelines.

A serious crash on the A13 near Lakeside caused an overnight closure between Marsh Way and Ferry Lane while accident investigators worked at the scene. Emergency services, including paramedics, firefighters, and an air ambulance, attended. The road reopened at about 7:45 a.m., though traffic remained slow due to the earlier incident.

A rare visit by the Goodyear Blimp saw the airship land at Damyns Hall Aerodrome on the south Essex border during its first UK trip in four years. The semi‑rigid Zeppelin NT, one of only four Goodyear blimps still in commercial use, arrived after crossing from France and flying over Kent and the Thames into London. Used mainly for advertising and aerial coverage of sports events, the aircraft will remain based at the aerodrome until next weekend. Aviation enthusiasts noted its significance amid an estimated global total of only 25 operational blimps and airships.

A signalling fault at Chelmsford is causing delays on Greater Anglia services between Essex and London Liverpool Street, affecting routes including Clacton, Colchester Town and Braintree. All London-bound trains are using a single platform, increasing the risk of queues. Network Rail teams are working to replace faulty equipment, and passengers are advised to expect delays, consider alternative trains and take precautions due to hot weather.

Lists the five highest-rated kebab takeaways in and around Southend based on Just Eat reviews, highlighting their locations, ratings, customer feedback and qualities such as large portions, friendly service and popular dishes.

A burst water main on the Southend-bound A127 near the Fortune of War roundabout in Laindon has restricted traffic to a single eastbound lane while Essex and Suffolk Water crews continue repairs. Motorists may face delays and nearby customers could experience low water pressure until the work is completed, with the company thanking the public for their patience and promising further updates.

Pubs across south Essex, including The Exhibition Inn in Great Wakering, will stay open for England’s 1 a.m. World Cup match against Mexico, with some venues offering breakfast and drinks during the game. Extended opening hours were made possible after the UK Government granted special permission for pubs to remain open until 5 a.m., announced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Numerous pubs in Southend, Billericay, Basildon, and surrounding towns plan to welcome fans through the night to watch the match.

Overnight road closures will take place at Boreham Interchange as repair works affect access to the Boreham Car Boot Sale, with Main Road closing Saturday night and Link Road and Beaulieu Parkway closing Sunday night. Diversion routes will be signposted, and the works, carried out by Countryside Properties, include surfacing and kerb repairs.

Burst water main repairs on the A13 at the Hadleigh-Leigh border continue to cause significant delays, despite the switch to temporary traffic lights. Essex and Suffolk Water reports unexpected setbacks but expects a full reopening by the evening of July 3. Congestion is compounded by gas works in Southend and Eastwood, and drivers are advised to avoid the area where possible.

Beauchamps High School in Wickford postponed its Year 12 induction session to 11am so students can watch England’s 1am World Cup match against Mexico without losing sleep. The school cited high interest following England’s earlier win and advised students on arrival times, attire and facilities. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said children could still attend school after the late game, while coach Thomas Tuchel encouraged parents to let children watch. The match takes place in Mexico City, creating the early‑morning kick‑off for UK viewers.

Road closures around the partially collapsed Saks building in Southend remain in place as authorities carry out localised demolition work. Southend Council has urged the public to avoid the exclusion zone, citing safety concerns. Emergency services responded after debris fell from the structure, injuring two adults who did not require hospital treatment. Local businesses reported reduced customer activity following the collapse and ongoing restrictions.

A survivor of sexual abuse described the support received from Essex Police after Garry Turnidge was sentenced to 13 years in prison for multiple offences committed in the 1970s and 1980s. The victim highlighted the importance of speaking out regardless of how much time has passed and encouraged others to seek help. Investigators reported that Turnidge drugged and abused a schoolgirl and possessed indecent images. He will remain on the sex offenders register for life and is subject to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order. Police emphasised their commitment to pursuing justice in non-recent abuse cases.

An inquest into a fatal medical transport plane crash at Southend Airport has been suspended pending further investigation. The crash last July killed four people, including two pilots, a doctor and a nurse. No new hearing date has been set, and the senior coroner previously called the incident a tragedy. Post‑mortem examinations confirmed traumatic head injuries as the cause of death. Zeusch Aviation acknowledged involvement of its SUZ1 flight, and the airport remained closed for several days while emergency services carried out recovery and initial inquiries. Victim identification was completed using disaster protocols involving personal items, DNA and dental records.

Southend Airport expanded to 30 routes with new easyJet flights to Lyon from December 2026 and Sharm el-Sheikh from January 2027, adding to recent launches including Edinburgh. easyJet now serves 29 routes from the airport with three based aircraft, while seasonal Lapland flights also continue. The additions aim to increase travel options for winter sports and sun destinations, with holidays available through easyJet Holidays.

A section of a building above Saks Bar in Southend collapsed, injuring two people and sending debris onto the pavement. Witnesses described the incident as terrifying, noting families were nearby when rubble fell. Business owners reported closures and reduced foot traffic following road shutdowns. Emergency services responded promptly, and the building was expected to be inspected later in the day.