A PETITION has been launched by an Ockendon councillor to save bus services set for the axe in March.

Labour Councillor Barrie Lawrence's petition has called upon Thurrock Council to work with local bus companies to improve services and prevent people living in Aveley, Belhus and Ockendon feeling isolated.

Last week it was announced the axe is to fall on Arriva's 373 service, which is a bus link to London Underground rail services in Upminster.

The problem was compounded by Purfleet-based Ensign Bus Company also cutting its services to Upminster.

The cuts will happen from March 29 when Ensign's contract terminates with Thurrock Council, coinciding with the withdrawel of the Arriva 373 route which the operator says is for commercial reasons.

Councillor Lawrence said: "A new service, the 55, which only started recently will no longer serve Ockendon Station, instead it will run around the Belhus estate.

"This means local people from the Flowers Estate and Ockendon village will only have a direct service to Grays every other hour.

"Services to local hospitals will be limited to one every 90 minutes and will not run late."

Councillor Lawrence is concerned young people are going to encounter problems getting to school and families without cars will become isolated.

He added: "I want as many people as possible to sign up because it's the only way Thurrock Council will get its finger out.

"This is just the tip of the iceberg, if we don't fight back.

"What's being planned here, could happen in your area next, that's why we support from right across Thurrock."

For a copy of the petition contact Barrie Lawrence on 01375 857908.