Railings have been installed on the flowerbeds at Grays War Memorial as part of more than £80,000 invested in the borough’s war memorials to make sure they are all looking their best for the centenary of end of World War One. 

The small railing prevents people from sitting on the flowerbed wall and has been fitted to deter groups from using the site as a place to congregate and hang-out. 

Councillor Rob Gledhill, Leader of Thurrock Council, said: “Like many other residents I was fed up with the sight of our war memorial being used as a place for street drinkers and others to congregate all day showing little to no respect for the fallen.  

“It should be a place of quiet reflection where we remember all those who have lost their lives in service to their country and all who have served in the armed forces.

"The railings are in keeping with the memorial and makes it less convenient for people to use it as an impromptu seating area.” 

Aaron Watkins, councillor responsible for environment, said: “We have recently been preparing all of our war memorials to make sure they are ready for this weekend’s centenary remembrance events. 

“By making this small, and visually attractive, addition to the Grays War Memorial we can help make sure that the site is used for the purpose it is intended and not a place for people to congregate and pass the time.” 

Other work carried out as part of preparations for remembrance day includes specialist cleaning and restoration work on all the borough’s war memorials, special commemorative planters installed at war memorials; Silent Soldier silhouettes put on display at war memorials and in Thurrock Council cemeteries as well as Thurrock Council helping local communities to restore the beacons at Coal House Fort and Purfleet.