THE life and legacy of Rev John Newton, composer of the song Amazing Grace and a man who played a key role in the abolition of slavery was remembered at an event at the Purfleet-on-Thames Heritage Centre today (Sunday, 21 June).

The story of Rev Newton was featured in one of Thurrock Local History Society chair Sue Yates' columns and topday she was among those present when a plaque remembered him was unveiled.

Sue Yates with Piper Jo Goddard, historian Mike Ostler and local councillor Qaisar Abbas at the event.

The plaque was first unveiled by Borough Mayor Charlie Curtis in 2012 and was mounted at the Thameside Complex, but then became hidden away on a shelf at Thurrock Museum until it was recently found.

It was agreed to place it by the Thames at Purfleet and to mark the unveiling the the centre has also organised a special exhibition about John Newton's life at the heritage centre till next Sunday.

Piper Jo Goddard played amazing Grace.

A spokesperson for the centre paid thanks to CED Stone in West Thurrock for providing the stone on which the plaque was mounted and to Rasma Freimanis from the Cowper Newton Museum in Olney, Buckinghamshire who helped out with research and attended on the day.