Many residents are rightly concerned about a Department for transport proposal for a new Lower Thames road crossing. One of the options to be considered would channel much of the traffic very close to Orsett.

Angela has been investigating this issue and it is clear that discussion is at a very early stage and if this option, which is one of three being looked at, was brought forward for consideration, all residents will be fully consulted.

Angela says, "Although an early opinion poll on my website showed support for this option, this cannot reflect the strength of feeling of those directly affected. This was not part of any formal consultation and I am still taking the views from residents to pass on to the Department. I have already spoken to the Secretary of State for Transport, and I am planning to meet him to ensure he is personally aware of the strength of local feeling on this issue. Residents have expressed a clear view that they are opposed to the option of a crossing that would increase traffic near Orsett and they can be assured of my full support on this issue."

If you would like to let Angela know your views on this issue, you can contact her on email at flackk@parliament.uk or on the postal address in the contact us section of the website.

As soon as Angela found out that the Post Office in Orsett was due to close, she contacted the Post Office nationally to ensure that it was acting as swiftly as possible to replace the service.

The Post Office have reported that they are currently in negotiations on this, and aim to continue to provide a Post Office in the village if at all possible. Angela visited Orsett Stores recently to discuss the issues facing small shopkeepers, who are essentual to maintaining a vibrant and healthy village life.

Angela said, "Local Post Offices are vital for village life and can provide a much wider range of services than many people realise. I will do everything I can to ensure that Orsett does not lose this important service."

Angela Smith has been chosen to be the President of the Orsett Show for 2007.

Angela said, "The Orsett Show is one of the annual highlights in our local calendar, so I am delighted to have been asked to act as President for 2007." More