JAYWICK’S Martello tower’s 200th anniversary celebrations have been boosted by news of a £49,600 Heritage Lottery Fund grant.

The tower, on the Promenade, in Belsize Avenue, is getting the cash to fund a series of events and activities to educate the public about the historic building.

Built in 1809, the tower was one of 29 such structures put up along the east coast to repel a possible invasion by Napoleon.

The year-long celebrations, start in September and will include an exhibition about the region’s Martello towers, a series of talks on the Napoleonic Wars, school educational days, a marine event and the creation of a commemorative tapestry.

The tower is hosting a living history family day on September 12 and 13 to launch the celebrations.

The event will explore what might have happened in Jaywick if the French had invaded and will feature a mock battle, conducted by a historical re-enactment group.

For more information, call Cindy Rowland on 01255 822783, or go to www.jaywickmartellotower.org