HOUSE prices in Thurrock have shot up by more than 13 per cent in the last year.

New statistics released by the Office of National Statistics reveals the increase saw the average house price in the town rise from £229,484 in December 2015 to £259,901 in December last year.

The national annual increase for properties in England, stands at 7.7 per cent with an average property price of £236,424.

The South East of England figures were also higher than the national average, with the average property coming in at £316,026, an increase of 8.5 per cent in the last year.

David Cope, 57, director of Copes Estate Agents, Orsett Road, Grays said he is not surprised.

He added: “House prices in Grays are still quite cheap compared to some places such as Romford and Thurrock is attracting buyers from London.”