THE founder of Purfleet Heritage Centre has spoken of his pride and joy after another community event held there proved a great success.

On Sunday (24 April) members of the borough's Nepalese Community attended the centre, which houses many miliary exhibitions including an area devoted to the Ghurkas,

The day marked a new celebration event, marking the connection between the Brigade of Gurkhas and the British Army, which has been consistent since 1815 – 207 years ago.

Su Gosling addresses visitors to Sunday's event.

Alan Gosling, who together with his wife Sue is one of the close knit team of volunteers who keep the centre going, told Nub News of his recollections of another memorable day.

He said: "So on the 207th year on a lovely sunny day, we commemorated this connection. It began with introductions of course, by Sundar Limbu and his brother Kishor, they are two of the instigators of the event (which they hope becomes nationwide in the future). They were followed by Thurrock Nepalese Gurkha Community (TNGC) President Manada Rai. 

"During the opening of the day a two minute silence was observed and a Lament played by a Piper in full uniform (pictured) of the Gurkha Rifles from Folkstone Barracks. Standard bearer was the Heritage Centre's own RAF Regt veteran Leonard Milledge.

"Among guests were Mayor of Thurrock, Cllr Sue Shinnick, Cllrs Lee Watson, Qaisar Abbas and Jimmy Tandy and Far East veteran Mike Ostler. Thurrock British Legion Chairman Rod Oakley and British Legion Riders, who always give great support, were also present.

Mayor Cllr Sue Shinnick with the young dancers.

"As the day progressed, we were treated to traditional dancing by five lovely young girls who all looked gorgeous in their dresses. Two of whom we had seen dance here before when they were only six years of age. Incidentally, they were joined by one of the veterans who was thoroughly enjoying himself.

"Everyone was clapping along with the music.

The water colour painted by Mrs S Thapa.

"This was followed by a presentation of a water colour to the centre by Cllr Shinnick and accepted by myself and my wife on behalf of the centre. The painting is of Rifleman Kilbir Thapa who was awarded the VC for action during 1915 in Belgium. He passed away in 1956.

"The water colour was painted by Mrs S Thapa, Sundar's wife, who was present. The painting will take pride of place in the display area dedicated to the Gurkhas inside the Heritage Centre.

"We all then enjoying the playing by the Piper, which was grand.

"Following all of this, everyone was invited to go up on the riverbank ready for the Centre's 1889 cannon, provided by Ken Slaney, to be fired. Two big bangs were fired off across the river. This always goes well with everyone!

"This was followed by a speech from Cllr Shinnick and after a short speech by my wife Sue thanking all our guests, lunch for all was provided by TNGC.

"With the weather thankfully on our side it was great to have so many people back together once again after two horrible years of being shut away. Fun and enjoyment and great to catch up.

"I asked the Piper if he would stand by one of the silhouettes along the river bank and play another lament. No8 represents Dugald Campbell one of the Purfleet fallen, a family member still lives in Purfleet. This he was proud to do. 

"What a wonderful day""