Probate in
Benfleet
We have local consultants in
Benfleet who can visit you in the daytime or evening. Our consultations are free, there is no obligation and no pressure. We provide a sympathetic and personal service to suit your needs. Our advisors are fully trained in subjects such as
Probate,
Wills,
Letters of administrations and much more
To speak to an advisor please call us free of charge on 0800 612 6105, alternatively if you prefer to call a land line number or if calling from a mobile phone call 020 8150 2010
History
In Roman times the reclaimed area which is now Canvey Island was joined to the mainland by a road providing access from Benfleet to Camulodunum (Colchester) and Londinium (London). The A130 road from Sadlers Farm roundabout to Canvey Island follows the route of the original Roman road. Its construction in 1971 brought to light a number of artifacts dating back to the early settlements in the area.
The name of the town originates from the time of the Saxon settlers in the 5th Century, when the area was largely marshland. They named the area Beamfleote, meaning "tree stream", being the area where the creeks from the River Thames adjoined the wooded area to the north. The current spelling was adopted at the time the railway service was brought to the area and a railway station built for the town. Throughout the intervening period various documented versions of the names has been 'Benfleota', 'Beamflet', 'Bemflet', 'Bienflet' and 'Bemfleet'. The last was used on John Norden's maps in the 17th Century.
In Saxon times the village became known as South Benfleet when a new settlement, which became known as Little Benfleet, developed to the north of the original settlement. The new settlement did not last, and its site, which has since become known as North Benfleet, is now largely rural.