The highly anticipated BBC documentary “Canvey: The Promised Island” has shown two starkly different communities can overcome differences, say those involved in the show.

The show aired on Tuesday night and followed 25 Hasidic Jewish families from Stamford Hill embarking on an exodus to Canvey.

As family-orientated community with ultra-Orthodox beliefs, the Jewish community was worried of an impending cultural clash with the locals. Chris Fenwick, manager of rock band Dr Feelgood, worked with Jewish community leaders, Castle Point councillor Barry Campagna and the BBC.

He said: “I’ve always had a close relationship with the Jewish community here. BBC approached me in February 2016 to shoot the film.

“I wanted to give the community a platform to share what it’s like moving into a different town.

“Their culture is also very different from ours, and it was an opportunity for us to learn more about them.”

In 2013, the island was voted as the most English place in the country. Seventy-two per cent of islanders voted Brexit.

Mr Fenwick said: “Many residents have welcomed the new community. The documentary has shown Canvey in a positive light. Some might not be keen about their new neighbours but that’s their opinion.

“I am optimistic that we’ll get along. This is about the Jewish community moving for a better quality of life just like many people had done.”

Joel Friedman, 31, a policy director with a Jewish charity, said: “We had lots of very positive reactions. We’re settling in very well. We were very excited about moving to Canvey. It’s a lot quieter, the people are friendly and there’s a lovely beach.

“I want to thank everyone who helped us. I also want to thank councillor Ray Howard who helped us with settling in and understanding the community.”

Barry Campagna, representing Canvey Island South, said: “The film interviewed both communities to get balanced views. Not many islanders knew much about their culture. Some residents were happy, some were not, but building up relationships take time.

“The film was really well done, it showed Canvey in a positive light and it debunked a lot of stereotypes about our island.”

Councillor Ray Howard, representing Canvey Island West, said: “The film has shown the very best of Canvey and its residents. Lots took part in welcoming the new community. I felt Reverend David Tudor has done Canvey very proud.

“Although a majority of the island voted Brexit but it doesn’t mean we’re right-wingers.

“I helped the Jewish community with their enquiries about the island and with their settlement process and they were very eager about the island.”