SOUTH Basildon MP Stephen Metcalfe joined the Heart of Pitsea at their annual Pitsea Community Christmas Event on Saturday (2 December) to show his support for all the work done by the local trust and wish the volunteers well.

The event is an important fixture of the local calendar, featuring low-cost sideshows, an entertainment programme and community stalls. Father Christmas arrived on his sleigh and youngsters enjoyed free Christmas crafts in Pitsea Library.

The organisation has been serving Pitsea residents for more than 10 years – creating hundreds of local projects and community events, forging friendships across the local area and championing the work of local organisations.

Mr Metcalfe at the event.

While the Heart of Pitsea is due to stop receiving National Lottery funding at the end of the year, volunteers are keen to continue the Christmas Event in 2024. The Heart of Pitsea's Tuesday Walking Group and the Pitsea Pots maintenance team will also continue.

Mr Metcalfe said: "Many thanks to the Heart of Pitsea for hosting another great Christmas event. It was great fun and I want to congratulate the volunteers for this event and all events and projects that they have over provided over the last 10 years.

"I hope to be back next year at another Pitsea Community Christmas Event."