A FURTHER 20 people have been arrested today, following more protests in Thurrock.

Essex Police has arrested a total of 83 people following protests in the Thurrock district over the last two days, on suspicion of a variety of offence.

Protests have been ongoing today and also took place yesterday.

They are over the use of fossil fuels, as those involved call on the government to stop any expansion of UK oil and gas production.

The Just Stop Oil activists said Saturday morning’s tunnel activity at Grays and Navigator meant the main and emergency access roads to the oil terminals were closed.

The activists said Titan Truck Park contains more than 100 oil tankers which service the three major oil terminals in the area.

READ MORE >> Man charged after 'significant amount' of drugs discovered during police stop

It comes after activists from Just Stop Oil and Extinction Rebellion obstructed 10 fuel sites in the Midlands and southern England in the early hours of Friday, April 1, to stand against “expanding UK oil and gas production”.

Protesters were glued on to roads, suspended on bamboo tripods, and locked on to oil drums and each other from around 4am.

63 people were arrested on Friday, after protesting in Oliver Road, Grays, in London Road, Purfleet, and in Askew Farm Lane, Grays.

A further 20 people have been arrested today, Saturday April 2, in Oliver Grays, and Stoneness Road, Grays.

Assistant Chief Constable Rachel Nolan said: “Our officers are continuing to work in exceptionally challenging circumstances with a view to bringing these protests to a safe and swift conclusion.

“I would like to thank businesses, local drivers and workers for their continued patience whilst we carry out our work.”