Community celebrates the beginning of festive season

CHRISTMAS arrived in South Ockendon on Friday (25 November) when a joint community event was held at South Ockendon Village.

SStaff from local compnay H.W.Wilson together with Saint Nicholas Church and Belhus and Ockendon Community Forum members arranged a 'Lighting Up Christmas Lights and Christmas Carols' event around the Christmas tree.

A Father Christmas grotto was provided by Peter Wiffen with many presents being given to the children.

Teas, Coffee and mince pies were also handed out.

Thurrock Spectrum Brass provided the music.

Several stalls were on site selling Christmas items and local businesses provided Raffle Prizes.

Thurrock Mayor Cllr James Halden together with local councillors also took part.

Organisers said: "It was a joy to see so many people turn out and support this event and have an enjoyable evening. A big thank you to those members of the community and local businesses who helped to make the event go so well."