THE community of Aveley is embracing a street rep programme that gets to the root of local issues.

People who have a problem, whether it be a fallen fence, pothole, parking or similar, can raise their concerns with a rep who will pursue the council for an answer.

Sharon McGovern, 53, an author and rep, said: “People trust us because they trust we’ll look at the problem. It’s about communities, going back to the old times when we were like an extended family.”

Rep Teresa Webster, 47, said: “We want to make it better for the community. We want to see more reps so more people can help.”

If you can help out, call Thurrock Council on 01375 652652.