Homebuyers from affluent commuter towns are snapping up cheaper houses in desirable Halstead.

The number of buyers from areas like Shenfield, Brentwood and Chelmsford has surged, according to one estate agent.

However, this is also pushing up prices and making homes less affordable for Halstead’s younger buyers.

It comes as latest figures show Halstead homebuyers are finding it almost as expensive to buy a home here as buyers in London.

Steve Maddison, owner of Scott Maddison estate agents in the High Street, said: “For youngsters, if they haven’t got parental help in saving big deposits then there is little chance of them getting on the housing ladder."

See this week's Halstead Gazette for the full story.