CANVEY’S memorial to the victims of the 1953 flood is set to get a spruce up – when town councillors agree who should get the contract.

Councillors at the community relations committee discussed quotes from three different companies to improve the look of the memorial plaque, which sits on the wall of the island’s library.

It was installed by regeneration charity Canvey 2000, but is now looking run down.

London based Antique Bronze Ltd quoted £470 to treat corrosion of the plaque and clean and polish the memorial using specialist products.

A specialist at RSL Restoration Ltd, in Lincoln, with ten years experience working for the Commonwealth War Graves Commission quoted £795, while the third most expensive companay, Bronze Restorations, based in Surrey quoted £1,160 to take the plaque off the wall and carry out extensive cleaning and repairs.

Ray Howard (Con, West Ward) said: “I realise we have got to watch our pennies, but this I believe is something the community would not object to having upgraded. It has deteriorated.”

Council Chairman Nick Harvey (Canvey Island Independent Party, North Ward) gave his support to the most expensive quote.

He said: “Those people lost their lives. I don’t think we should scrimp for the sake of £700.”

Councillor Peter Greig (Canvey Island Independent Party, Winter Gardens) was keen on the middle quote on the grounds of the specialist’s extensive experience.

But Barry Dixie (Canvey Island Independent Party, Winter Gardens) questioned the need to spend so much money.

He said: “I think those who lost their lives would rather have the money spent on projects in the community.”

It was agreed the committee would make a site visit to the plaque before making a final decision.