SPORTING events that brought communities together and crossed boundaries took place in Basildon this week to mark the United Nations' International Day of Peace.

Basildon Borough Twinning Association along with their partners in Heiligenhaus (Germany) and Meaux (France) organised a number of events to help promote the landmark day on 21 September which highlights the need for those in conflict to lay down their arms and stop the hate.

This year a special football match kicked off the commemorations with a game between a select XI of Basildon Young Twinning members and a group brought together from the BME community and migrants to this country.

The match was attended by Basildon mayor Councillor David Dadds and Vange Cllr Yetunde Adeshile. The match referee was Cllr Kevin Blake. It proved to be such a poignant occasion with a candlelit ending ceremony of reflection. Southend ATF (Achieve, Thrive & Flourish) group attended with their Basildon-based members.

The day began with a soccer and netball tournament at Greensted Junior School played between Greensted Junior School, Lee Chapel and Northlands Primary Schools. A hectic morning of activity took place with the main theme being 'Hate won't win'.

The final matchup was a soccer match between the year eight teams from Beauchamps High School and Harris Academy from Rainham. It was a competitive match thoroughly enjoyed by all those spectating.

A further game between Woodlands School and Beauchamps High School took place on Friday.