TWO Tory councillors are offering a reward after a green belt banner was stolen.

Controversial plans to build 165 homes on fields between Sadlers Farm roundabout and Glebelands in Benfleet will be going to appeal next Tuesday.

Banners have been going up in the borough saying “Save Our Green Belt” after campaigners urged residents to show the Government Planning Inspectorate when he arrives next week that people want to protect the borough's green spaces.

Now, anger has been sparked after thieves made off with one of the banners which had been placed over the “Welcome to Benfleet” sign in London Road.

Furious councillors Jackie Govier and Clive Walter are offering a £20 reward for its safe return.

Mr Walter, councillor for St George’s ward, said: “Clearly the destroyers of greenbelt do not want the voices of opposition to be heard. Now more than ever we need to band together to help protect our green spaces with this upcoming appeal, so it is so important it is returned to us.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact the councillors by emailing cllr.jgovier@castlepoint.gov.uk or cllr.cwalter@castlepoint.gov.uk