Conservatives - Thurrock & Basildon

23/07/2026

07/07/2026

Cllr Qaisar Abbas Pays Tribute to Former Mayor of Thurrock Terry Piccolo

Former Mayor of Thurrock and Conservative Councillor for Stanford-le-Hope, Terry Piccolo, sadly passed away on Monday, 6 July 2026.

Paying tribute, Thurrock Conservative Group Leader Cllr Qaisar Abbas said:

“We mourn the loss of former Mayor Terry Piccolo. His dedication to public service and commitment to improving the lives of those around him left a lasting mark on Thurrock and Stanford-le-Hope. I have fond memories of Terry, as we attended many community events together, and I always admired his unwavering commitment to serving people of Thurrock.

He served residents with integrity, compassion and a genuine desire to make a difference. He believed in bringing people together and worked tirelessly for the betterment of Stanford-Le-Hope and Thurrock. The efforts he put into local projects really made a difference to the community he happily served.

On behalf of the Thurrock Conservative Group, I extend our heartfelt condolences to Terry’s lovely wife Joan, his family, friends and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace and may his memory continue to inspire us to serve people of Thurrock with the same kindness, dedication and sense of public duty that he exemplified.”

Terry was the only Mayor in Thurrock’s history to serve two consecutive terms as Mayor. He donated much of his allowance to charity as he was unable to host fundraising events during COVID-19 pandemic.

06/06/2026

We are pleased to introduce our two brilliant candidates for upcoming by-elections in Thurrock:

Joglur Rahman - Grays Town

Srikanth Panjala - Grays Riverside

28/05/2026

Cllr Qaisar Abbas Slams Thurrock Reform Over Removal of Ukraine Solidarity Flag

Conservative Councillor Qaisar Abbas has condemned Thurrock Council’s new Reform administration after its first action was to remove the Ukrainian solidarity flag from council offices.

Cllr Abbas said: “Thurrock is proud of its history, heritage, and strong community spirit. Residents expect their council leadership to focus on delivering better services, fixing local problems, and improving lives - not engaging in divisive political gestures.

“The Ukrainian flag was raised to show our solidarity and support for democracy and sovereignty, not for any other political purpose. It is important to remember that in 2024, all Thurrock councillors - including Reform councillors - voted to strengthen ties with Ukraine.

“I also remember many Thurrock residents who opened their homes and supported Ukrainian families arriving in Thurrock. Removing the Ukrainian solidarity flag does nothing to help local families, businesses, or communities, but it does send the wrong signal at the wrong time.”

Cllr Abbas said Thurrock Reform should now refocus its attention on the issues that matter most to residents - delivering reliable local services and supporting struggling families.
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26/05/2026

Former Aveley Councillor and long standing Labour Party member, Srikanth Panjala, has joined Conservative Party in another blow to Thurrock Labour Party.

Announcing his resignation, Mr Panjala Said: “I joined politics for positive change, not to be a victim of political division and hatred. Despite my political affiliation, I always got support from Conservative Councillors and am pleased to become a Conservative Member today. The Conservative Party is inclusive, supportive and progressive. I will utilise my knowledge and expertise to help and support Thurrock communities.”

Welcoming Mr Panjala into Conservative family, Councillor Qaisar Abbas said: “We are pleased to welcome Srikanth into the Conservative Party. He has made positive contribution in politics and also to the Thurrock Neighbourhood watch. He brings knowledge and experience. We are good in supporting people and delivering promises.We always place residents, communities and local businesses first.”

Essex Conservative Party Chair, Craig Rimmer, and Basildon and Thurrock Conservative Party Chair, Yetunde Adeshile, issued a joint statement and said: “We are happy to welcome another new member into the Conservative Party and also anyone else who feels let down by other political parties. We are a party who can be trusted to deliver for Thurrock.”

Thurrock Labour has history of councillors, former councillors and long standing members resigning alleging, racism, discrimination and nepotism within Thurrock Labour Party.

The Conservative Party continues to attract members from across the whole community who are committed to delivering practical solutions, supporting local communities and ensuring a stronger future for Thurrock residents.

22/05/2026

Conservative Councillor Qaisar Abbas Shares Concerns Over Reform's Lack of Commitment to Thurrock

Conservative Councillor Qaisar Abbas raises serious questions about the Reform party’s local leadership, candidate vetting process, and readiness to govern responsibly.

Cllr Abbas said: “The two Thurrock Reform Councillors’ resignations come at a significant cost to all Thurrock taxpayers, with rumours that more are to come. We now face the burden of costly by-elections only weeks after the local elections were held. Residents will rightly ask how individuals were selected to stand for public office without the commitment or preparation required to serve their residents.

“Voters expect councillors who are committed to serving their residents, attending meetings, and standing up for their fellow neighbours, not candidates who resign before council business has even begun.

“ Local residents deserve stability, accountability, and representatives who are prepared to serve the full term they were elected for. Conservatives will soon announce serious, committed and credible candidates for these seats."

19/05/2026

Cllr Qaisar Abbas Hosts Thurrock’s Young Artists

Conservative Councillors Qaisar Abbas and Elena Pelin welcomed young artists to the Town Hall and appreciated their artwork during a special event celebrating local talent.

Children from various Thurrock schools met with Councillor Abbas during different events and shared their enthusiasm for art and creativity. Cllr Abbas invited selected young artists, along with their parents, to showcase their work at the Town Hall.

Speaking at the event, Cllr Abbas said:

“Our young people are our future, and I am so pleased to host them today. I am confident these artists will portray Thurrock’s positive side across the UK and beyond.”

Cllr Abbas and Cllr Pelin commended the children for their creativity and artistic talent, highlighting the importance of encouraging young people to express themselves through art and contribute positively to the community