Dozens of people have been convicted for their parts in disruption caused in south Essex after protests.

In the last week, 20 people have been convicted in court for their part in the disruption caused in the Thurrock district in April last year.

Officers from across the force responded to a high number of incidents in Grays throughout that month and made a significant number of arrests.

Dozens of people were subsequently charged.

Of that 20, 12 people have been sentenced for a number of offences including aggravated trespass and wilful obstruction of the highway.

In total, they were ordered to pay more than £7,200 in fines, court costs and victim fees and carry out more than 280 hours of unpaid work.

Eight people have had their sentencing hearing adjourned until later dates.

Detective chief inspector Louise Metcalfe, who has led the investigative response to the incidents of disruption, said: “We know the public, rightly, have strong opinions on the incidents we have seen in specific parts of Essex in the last ten months and they want to see justice done.

“After each and every incident and each and every arrest, officers have been responsible for collating evidence to show the harm caused and the impact of these people’s actions on our communities.

“We have done this all within parameters of the law as it is available to us and the Crown Prosecution Service has presented those cases in court and it is down to the court to decide upon appropriate sentences.

“This work will continue throughout the coming months and I would ask the public not to underestimate the work that has gone into these investigations by our dedicated officers.”