THE AWARD for Best in Customer Service" at the Thurrock Business Awards went to South Ockendon-based HW Wilson. At a gala evening at the Civic Hall in Grays, the company was recognised not only for its ability and standards as a building company but for the "warmth, professionalism and integrity of its service from beginning to end."
A THURROCK company is “back in the game” after having to throttle back on its business. Ed’s Minibus and Coaches of East Tilbury was forced to pull out from many of its contracts following the introduction of London’s Low Emission Zone early in 2012 – illegally breaching the zone would cost £200 a time.
TAX credits claimants in Thurrock are reminded by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) today to report changes in their circumstances - or they may receive more money than they are entitled to.
They would have to pay this back and might face a financial penalty. From April this year, any income increase for a household of more than £5,000 for the tax year will reduce a claimants tax credits award for the 2013-14 tax year. This amount has fallen from the previous figure of £10,000, after a Budget announcement in 2010.
Perry Glading, Chief Operating Officer at Forth Ports (owner of The Port of Tilbury), said: “We’re pleased to see the four turbines starting to take shape at the Port of Tilbury. This wind farm demonstrates our commitment to the environment and further enhances our position as Britain’s Greenest Port. The team at SSE Renewables are doing a great job with the installation, with minimum interruption to daily activities at our busy port. We look forward to seeing the four turbines in place once they are completed, as this project is something we are very proud of.”
SHOPPERS are being advised to keep their eyes peeled for some fun and surprising events in the Central Atrium at Lakeside this Saturday.
“Comic Relief is coming up on 15th March so we have some exciting events planned for our shoppers this weekend,” hinted Izzie Peskett, Marketing Manager for Lakeside. “We can’t reveal exactly what they are yet – we wouldn’t want to ruin the surprise – but we can guarantee lots of fun, high energy and some surprising sights.”
Supporting the initiative, Conservative spokesman for Communities Cllr Phil Anderson said “The Credit Union does wonderful work for its members. It safely lends money to people who would otherwise be vulnerable to loan sharks or at risk from sky-high interest rates of payday lenders. It also teaches budgeting skills and good saving habits, to help people avoid getting into problems next time round.
Cllr Kent – who met with Post Office representatives in February to highlight the importance of their services to the town – also said he was pleased to see the Post Office was working to “recruit a new permanent partner” and that “a potential new operator has been identified”.
Speaking during the budget debate, Leader Cllr John Kent, told Wednesday (27 February) evening’s meeting of the council: “I am pleased to say this budget means that from the 1st of April Thurrock Council will be a Living Wage employer – the money’s in this budget, but the vote’s yet to be taken and that happens next month.”
IF you were in any doubt as to the scale of the operation at the London Gateway then the arrival of three new giant cranes at the Stanford-le-Hope port. The quay cranes, which are taller than the London Eye and weigh 1,848 tonnes each, measure 138 metres in height - two and a half times the height of Nelson's column in Trafalgar Square.
IT'S not often that a company asks people to take its money, but that’s exactly what Lakeside is doing as it seeks new nominations for its Heart of the Community campaign. Designed to support local charities, community groups and other good causes, Lakeside’s Heart of the Community fund gives £500 to two local charities every month. In 2012, 24 diverse and deserving causes were supported, ranging from hospitals to pre-schools, scout groups to food banks.
“The Thurrock Freight Quality Partnership will provide operational efficiency measures - particularly in relation to operating cleaner vehicles and managing fuel use – and can lead to financial savings and improved environmental performance.” He added: “The scheme will provide recognition as well as support, for the operators implementing operational efficiency measures, and signing-up can help raise the profile of a company’s commitment to operational and environmental performance.
THE Port of Tilbury this week helped the Rev Joshua Rey of Streatham, South London, give his wife a birthday treat to remember by providing a surprise tour around the port. Rev Rey’s wife, Annie, has a passion for ships emanating from her childhood trips to Ireland from Holyhead and has always wanted to visit the port. When the Reverend contacted the port, Lynda Viccars, the Port of Tilbury’s Community Liaison Manager was only too happy to oblige.
At Tilbury, plans are in motion to rebuild the cruise section of the Landing Stage and to double the size of the terminal with significant upgrading throughout, including a new lounge and improved WiFi. More details about the upgradal will be announced this spring.
Orsett Hall is set in 12 acres of beautiful landscaped gardens, coupled with serenity, peacefulness and personal service. Creating the perfect day, one that you won’t forget! There will be over 50 exhibitors at our Wedding Fayre on display, many of whom have worked alongside Orsett Hall for many years, all here to help make your day perfect. Come and see our lovely Wedding Chapel, it has to be seen to be believed!
A COMPANY that recently received a cash boost from a company owned by Chelsea boss Roman Abramovich is set to build a ground-breaking energy system in Thurrock. In November AFC Energy, received a £4.9m European Union grant to create the world’s largest alkaline fuel cell energy generation system reports proactiveinvestors.co.uk.
