THE ROTARY club of Grays Thurrock would like to thank the people of Thurrock for attending the recent Christmas concert at the Civic Hall, Blackshots, and donating so generously to very worthy and needy causes.

In the region of 700 people attended the event and were entertained by more than 100 musically talented artists.

The Aveley and Newham Brass Band headed the concert and were supported by Deneholm School choir, Thurrock Male Voice Choir and Thurrock Choral Society.

More than £5,000 was raised by the event, all of which will be donated to various charitable causes.

Preparations for next year’s concert are already under way and, having sought feedback from members of the audience, we are aiming for an even better concert with more traditional Christmas music and more audience participation. – RAY SMALLCOMBE, Grays Thurrock Rotary Club, High Road, North Stifford.