IT'S been another seven days of big news stories in Maldon, from news of a boost to the town's policing team through to the revelation that the new £100,000 garden play area at the Prom could be ready by May.

Here at Nub News we like to make your life easier so if you've missed any of the local news this week, don't worry.

We have you covered with 10 of the top stories right here.

1. As the clock ticks towards the next Census, an appeal for volunteers to help local people with the online forms was launched.

Could you be the right person for this volunteering opportunity? Find out more here.

2. Maldon district's Covid infection rate showed a steep increase, though the figure remains well below the county average

You can read the full story here.

3. A Maldon project aimed at improving carbon emissions from homes showed the way for the county.

Find out what the Essex Climate Change Commission had to say about the scheme's success here.

4. Maldon District Council announced plans for free parking afternoons this festive season.

You can read about the plan to help support local businesses here.

5. Maldon's town centre policing team grew with three new faces.

You can find out how the town council was involved here.

6. A report to a council meeting revealed some of the effects of the pandemic on the local community.

Read about it here.

7. Better news came on the £100,000 improvement to a popular play area at Maldon's Promenade Park.

You can find out more here.

8. Maldon District Council brought a successful prosecution against a man who ran an unauthorised bar.

Get the full story here

9. The historic sailing barges at Hythe Quay could get a river wharfage fee discount to help see them though a difficult year.

Find out more here.

10. Any resident wanting to know more about the plan for local NHS services in the difficult winter season ahead may want to consider attending this week's online board meeting of the local Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG).

Read how you can take part here.