The leader of Basildon Council has urged the Government to do more to help his residents out.

Gavin Callaghan, the leader of the council, has written a letter to bosses which the Echo has seen, which demands Government to help fund a three to six month break from council tax, council rents, and boosted sick pay.

In the letter, written to the Secretary of State, Robert Jenrick MP, Mr Callaghan has also asked for reassurance and clarity from the Government that they will reimburse councils for significant losses of income from shutting facilities to deal with coronavirus, as well as for extra costs incurred supporting essential activities for residents.

The leader said: "I urge the Government to take further swift action to support the most vulnerable, elderly, and at risk residents in Basildon, by introducing significantly enhanced statuatory sick pay for all, and a council tax and and council rent holiday of three to six months, which is fully funded by central government.

"This will directly support families affected by the outbreak, whilst ensuring councils do not a vital source of funding to maintain essential public services in the weeks and months ahead."