Heybridge residents have been urged to get involved with the village's new 'Climate Action Partnership', set up by Maldon District Council but run by the community.

Councillors say the community group is open to "anyone interested in helping to ensure the fight against climate change is taken up at a local level".

It will give residents who participate the chance to work alongside friends and neighbours, and to learn more about their community on a variety of climate-friendly projects and schemes including:

• Energy-saving at home
• Tree planting
• Flood protection for individual homes
• Solar power for homes and public buildings
• Recycling best practice and minimising waste
• 'Grow your own' projects and using local produce
• A range of other eco-friendly local projects

A Council spokesperson added: "It will also include sustainable travel options and choices.

"For example, the recently launched Travel Essex App, which has environmentally friendly travel options for short and long journeys.

"The idea is that with initial support and guidance on funding opportunities from local authorities, organisations and experts, the new Climate Action Partnership will be run by and for Heybridge residents and businesses."

The launch meeting of the new group will take place on Wednesday 30 November at Plantation Hall in Colchester Road, Heybridge. All are welcome to attend, and doors will open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start.

As well as information on how to join the partnership, there will be a discussion on 'What Climate Change Means for Heybridge', following a talk by a special guest speaker, Professor Jules Pretty from the University of Essex, Chair of the Essex Climate Change Action Commission.

Tea, coffee, and a small selection of refreshments will be provided, free of charge, at the end of the meeting.

For more information, contact the Climate Action Friends via email.

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