Thurrock came together on Sunday (25 October) to remember the 39 Vietnamese men, women and young people who tragically lost their lives seven years ago.
A memorial service took place at West Thurrock Memorial Park, Hilltop Road, to honour those whose bodies were discovered in a lorry in Eastern Avenue, West Thurrock, on 23 October 2019.
The annual commemoration provided an opportunity for the community to reflect on the lives lost, offer continued support to their families and loved ones, and remember a tragedy that deeply affected Thurrock and communities around the world.
Families of the victims were joined by Cllr Alan Benson, Deputy Leader of Thurrock, and Cllr Bill Cook, Mayor of Thurrock, as well as local faith, civic and community leaders at West Thurrock Memorial Park, where a permanent memorial and 39 trees honour those who lost their lives. The service, led by Father Simon Thang Duc Nguyen, included readings, a moment of silence and the laying of wreaths.
Cllr William Cook, Mayor of Thurrock, said: “Seven years have passed since this terrible tragedy, but the memory of the 39 lives lost remains deeply felt here in Thurrock and far beyond.
“Each of those men, women and young people had hopes and aspirations for the future. As we come together to remember them, our thoughts remain with their families, friends and loved ones who continue to live with their loss.
“We also remember the extraordinary compassion shown by our emergency services, faith leaders, council staff, community organisations, and residents in the aftermath of the tragedy. Their kindness and care demonstrated the very best of our community at an immensely difficult time.
“This memorial is not only a place of remembrance, but also a reminder of our shared responsibility to uphold the dignity of every individual and support those who may be vulnerable or at risk.
“On behalf of Thurrock Council and our residents, I offer our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the 39 victims. They will never be forgotten.”
The permanent memorial was unveiled in October 2022, alongside 39 trees, each representing one of the people who lost their lives.
It stands as a lasting tribute to the victims and a reminder of the importance of protecting vulnerable people from exploitation.
Seven years on, Thurrock continues to stand alongside the Vietnamese community, both locally and around the world, in remembering those who died and ensuring their lives are never forgotten.
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