THURROCK may not be the first name that springs to mind when you think Caribbean, but the Essex Freemasons of Henry de Gray Lodge who meet at the Cross Keys Masonic Centre in Chadwell St Mary, changed all that with a Caribbean Beach themed party that will live long in the memory.

With the assistance of fellow Freemason Steve Bruyel and his family who hosted the event a 'Tiki' bar was erected, sandy beach backdrops adorned the garden walls, and the sound of reggae music, laughter and fun were heard everywhere.

Accompanied by a barbecue consisting of jerk chicken with other local favourites, and a never-ending stream of mojitos, everyone had a fantastic day and a very long night.

The Charity event for Fragile X Society, was held on behalf of Lodge member Derek Dellow, a charity that Derek and his family have long supported.

Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) is a genetic condition, affecting around 1 in 4000 males and 1 in 6000 females. It can cause a wide range of difficulties with learning, as well as social, language, attentional, emotional, and behavioural problems. Some may experience connective tissue issues such as difficulty breast-feeding, hypotonia, hyperflexibility, flat feet, recurrent ear infections and mitral valve prolapse. FXS is the most common inherited cause of learning disability. About Fragile X Syndrome | Fragile X Society | UK

A total of £3,100 was donated to the Fragile X Society, and £350 to Orsett Lodge who helped make the day a memorable event and who will choose a local charity to donate the money to.

A further donation was made to Footsteps Youth Group for their annual trip to Mersea Island Festival.

The Mersea Island Festival is nine days of inclusive activities, bringing together those with or without a physical or learning disability. It provides an opportunity to take part in a wide variety of activities that challenge and stimulate, helping to build confidence while at the same time being fun and exciting and an opportunity to make new friends.

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Steve Hall, organiser of the event said: "Today has been a great success, and we would like to thank everyone involved in making it such a memorable occasion.

"Brotherhood, charity, and community are key to Freemasonry, and today has encapsulated that mantra perfectly."