TWO deserving good causes were recipients of large cheques at a presentation evening organised by the Stanford and Corringham Carnival.

It took place at the Wyldecrest County Club on Herd Lane, Corringham, on Saturday evening when young members of 'carnival courts' from across Essex and London took part on a competition highlighting their grace and talents.

Junior members of visiting carnival carnival courts made their entrance.

The celebration evening also brought an announcement from principle carnival procession organisers David and Cherie Sargeant that they will be standing down from that role after this summer's event, though they will still be helping in the background with the carnival and its other fundraising activities.

Cherie and David Sargeant.

Anyone interested in stepping into the procession role or joining the team behind the carnival is asked to contact David or Cherie on 01375 856382 or via Facebook.

Last year's carnival took place in August and was featured on Thurrock Nub News.

On Saturday evening the proceeds from the procession collection, the fete staged on the Billet Field and other yearly fundraising including a Santa Sleigh were given to Little Havens Children's Hospital and the Stanford and Corringham First Responders – who were also named as the beneficiaries of this year's event.

The work of the First Responders is explained. .

Little Havens' community ambassador Brian Terry was on hand to accept a cheque for £6,000 and members of the First Responders, some of who attended but were on call, received £1,200.