FAMILIES on Canvey have aired serious concerns about the strong smell of gas sweeping across the island.

A probe was launched by the council after many residents reported their fears.

The council received numerous complaints by families who smelt gas in and around their homes, particularly on Monday night - and the authority has now been in touch with the Health and Safety Executive and the Environment Agency.

Residents reported online about the smell being present in key roads such as Hilton Road, Long Road, Willow Close and East Crescent.

Calor Gas bosses have since confirmed the site in Thames Road is NOT causing the issue, so residents are left without an answer.

A number of worried residents took to social media to share their experiences and concerns.

Linda Browne, 55, of Canvey Road, said: “I’ve had to shut my windows as the smell was so strong and quite worrying. It’s all anyone has been talking about on the island and nobody seems to know what is happening. We want to know what is going on - and I don’t understand why nobody knows or is telling us about it.

“I know lots of people are discussing it on social media.”

Bob Smith, 44, of Long Road, echoed the concerns from other residents on the island.

He said: “I called the council and told them it was a serious issue, I think it was possibly toxic. I am very unhappy that no authority seems to be taking responsibility for this issue.

“As far as I am concerned, all of this isn’t good enough. And it’s worrying.

“Something needs to be seriously looked at without delay before it goes bang.

“Especially with people living so close to potentially hazardous sites.”

Laura Buxton, 22, of Willow Close, added: “Everyone is worried and angry.

“I have a young family and this is our home, we should not have to put up with this sort of thing. I have contacted the council and it feels like we are all just going around in circles over and over.”

A spokesman for Calor Gas said: “We have inspected our site, Thames Road, Canvey, and can confirm there has been no leak.”

A spokesman for Castle Point Council said: “Complaints regarding the smell Monday night have been investigated and residents have be advised.

“A report is being made to the HSE and the Environment Agency.”