MORE than 900 homeowners in south Essex were threatened with repossession last year.

A survey by homeless charity Shelter has revealed hundreds of people unable to pay their mortgages were are at risk of losing their home.

The most possession orders (325) were handed out in Thurrock, followed by Basildon (215) and Southend (190). There were 115 in Castle Point and 60 in Rochford district.

Shelter said it published the research as a warning to householders to start preparing for higher mortgage costs as interest rates are expected to rise.

Chief executive Campbell Robb said: “We know only too well that the combined pressures of high inflation, increased living costs and stagnant wages are really taking a toll on people.

“All it takes is one thing like job loss to tip people over the edge and into the spiral of debt, repossession and ultimately homelessness.

“With interest rates due to increase in the near future, this research is a clear warning sign.”