A clean up drive was held at a church in Great Wakering ahead of this weekend’s Remembrance Sunday events.

People in the village came together to clean up the war memorial at St. Nicholas Church in New Road.

Tina Hughes, councillor for Foulness & The Wakerings, said: "I would like to thank all those businesses and individuals that contributed to the cleaning of the War Memorial.

"I think that it is important that we do all we can to remember those who fought and died, so that we all can enjoy freedoms we often take for granted.

"I think it is also important to pass this on to our children and grand-children, so that they understand the sacrifices made for their future."

Neil Hookway, UKIP Group Leader at Rochford District Council added, "I am more than pleased to be able to support Tina in this venture. It is great to see her getting the community involved."

A collection was held by Mrs Hughes for the professional clean up which will be the location of one of many events across Southend, Castle Point and Basildon.