PROTESTERS fighting to overturn the streetlights switch-off across Essex are to march on the House of Commons in an effort to make their voices heard.

Tendring campaigner Maureen Smith is spearheading the demonstration and hopes thousands of people will join its ranks.

The protest is expected to take place on March 25 – the week before Parliament is dissolved ahead of the General Election.

“The idea is we go down there and will be able to call out our MPs to see how they stand on part-night lighting,” said Mrs Smith.

“It’s not just us – the AA and RoSPA have condemned it, but we are being stonewalled by people saying they want proof when the proof is already there.

“There is no need to trial LEDs – they only have to look at other councils.

“But it’s just excuse after excuse, so we have to take this London.”

Harwich councillor Ivan Henderson will be supporting the marchers. “There will not be a better opportunity to highlight the issue at a national level,” he said.

“It is now reaching national politics with Labour frontbencher Hilary Benn commenting on how people are feeling unsafe walking when the streetlights are off.

“I shall be right behind them on the march, as I have been from the start, and I will be until the lights are back on or there is a change to LEDs.”