POLICE are investigating the distribution of what they have called "racially motivated" leaflets delivered to homes in Grays.

Officers were contacted by a number of residents in Hastings Close, Maple Road and Argent Street who were concerned about material in the leaflet in which an organisation called the London-East Islamic Movement calls for radical, aggressive action against the west.

However, local politicians believe the leaflet to be the work of extreme right wing activists trying to incite racial divisions.

The leaflet also promoted the work of the Unite Against Fascism campaign but linked Thurrock Council's Unison branch with its own agenda.

Maureen McPherson, Unison branch secretary said: "I'm absolutely appalled a leaflet which is clearly designed to promote racial tension has been distributed.

"I can categorically state that Thurrock Unison has no knowledge of the leaflet and is not associated with the supposed writer.

"I should imagine that whoever wrote this leaflet assumes that the Thurrock people will be fooled into believing that Thurrock is harbouring extremists. Clearly from the number of complaints Thurrock people do not want to be associated with such obvious garbage. Inflammatory racial literature is a criminal offence and Thurrock Unison's name has been used illegally.

"I have contacted the police regarding the leaflets and should Thurrock Unison find the perpetrator we will request criminal proceedings to go ahead."

Supt Steve Tutton of Essex Police said: "Thurrock has a very good history of community relations.

"We are maintaining an open mind about the purpose of these leaflets and the people behind them and we will investigate all potential leads."

Anyone with information about the originators of the leaflets should contact Thurrock police on 01375 391212.