Memories forged at memorable Purfleet Heritage and Military Centre event

MANY visitors, including local councillors and Mayor Cllr Bill Cook, enjoyed a memorable open at the Purfleet Heritage and Military Centre on Sunday (16 August).

It featured cultures coming together, displays, food and the unveiling by Cllr Cook of a new display honouring Flying Officer Franciszek Gruzka, a Battle of Britain pilot.

Chair & Trustee of the centre Trevor Batchehlor produced this resume of events for Thurrock Nub news:

"The event kicked off with the Gurkha Festival where the colourful dancing is always an attraction.

"There was a break for the unveiling of a very detailed model aircraft and other memorabilia for Flying Officer Franciszek Gruzka. This was unveiled by Mayor Councillor Bill Cook.

"The model , a replica of the plane Gruzka flew was made by Dom Pound. He has been making models for other museums and collections in this country and France. He intends to make about 900 models in total. Dom was impressed with the Heritage Centre and offered to make a tank diorama for our army section.

"Nepalese cuisine was on offer and sold out completely.

"Films were shown inside the centre, for those who wished to cool down in 18th century air conditioning. Recently the north door has been opened up with a secondary mesh fire door. This will help the centre recover from years of damp.

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"During the day many visitors had a tour of the museum. Many were locals and did not know it was there.

"Southern Armour had a display in the car park with their radio controlled model tanks. Very entertaining with the sound effects. They drew a lot of interest. Those present wish to setup a local base and were offed the Centre.

"On the green Classic cars adorned the green. There was an early arrival of scooters.

"A field gun challenge for youngsters proved popular."