WHAT better way to find out what’s concerning residents than to pop down to one of the nation’s favourite fast-food restaurants?

That’s what MP Rebecca Harris had in mind when she held a surgery in McDonald’s in High Street, Hadleigh, to hear about issues affecting her constituents.

The area’s first event of its kind took place after the owner of the restaurant contacted Mrs Harris and Castle Point Council to offer the venue as a meeting point.

Mrs Harris said: “I have been trying to hold surgeries in the borough so people can get to meet me. I’ve so far held meetings at Canvey Town Council, Morrison’s cafe, and St Nicholas Church, on Canvey, and now McDonald’s.

“I just wanted to make myself available to people in their own surroundings and I am very grateful to the franchisee of McDonald’s Peter Tassell, for offering the venue.”

The MP added: “The event was successful and I enjoyed meeting people face to face.”

Castle Point councillor Norman Ladzrie, of St. James’ ward also attended the surgery, along with police officers from Castle Point.

Mr Ladzrie thanked Mr Tassell and urged more residents to attend the meetings. He said: “It is a very good idea bringing the surgery to people, which made it accessible for residents.

“We really liked the fact councillors, police, and the local MP could work jointly together today.

“The event was well received by residents and we really appreciate that we could meet them in their own environment on a one-to-one basis.”

For information about MP Rebecca Harris’s surgeries call 0207 219 7206 or send an e-mail to rebecca.harris.mp@parliament. uk l For details of other local councillors’ drop-in sessions, visit www.castlepoint.gov.uk and for information about Castle Point District Police visit www. essex.police.uk