Timber! Castle Point's MP has spent days clearing his garden of surplus trees for an event to help St Mary's Church, which is in the middle of a conservation area.

Bob Spink says he needed to make space for residents attending a proms night to be held in his backyard.

About 500 people are expected to descend on Mr Spink's Benfleet home for a night of music, song, food and drink. All proceeds will go to St Mary's, in the High Road.

Mr Spink said: "We have held a proms night for many years, always for St Mary's. It is a very ancient church and an important part of our heritage."

Tickets to the event, at 75 Downer Road, cost £7.50 for adults, £5.50 for senior citizens and £2.50 for children. Details on 07957 543648.

Published Thursday July 15, 2004

Brought to you by the Evening Echo