Workers, and supporters, are today (Thurs) marching from Waterloo to Whitehall to urge the government to rethink the planned closure of Coryton oil refinery east of London, close to Canvey Island, Essex.

An estimated 100-200 people have taken part in the protest against the closure that would result in job losses for as many as 850 workers.

Yesterday a band of workers camped outside the Esso fuels terminal in Purfleet, preventing lorries from leaving the site. In response the Government made clear it would not provide state aid to keep Coryton running. A letter reportedly reveals that Energy Minister Charles Hendry has ruled out providing any funds.

Thurrock Council believes the refinery’s closure will cost the local economy £100million. A report conducted by the council indicated that on top of a £30million loss of wages, £6million could be lost in locally-sourced materials.

[Photographs courtesy of @neilcaff]