A wartime exhibition was the ideal event to attract a visit from a former Canvey woman who moved to America after the floods 50 years ago.

Memories - Stella Shepherd at the show Picture: STEVE O'CONNELL

Stella Shepherd, 79, was the guest of honour at Thameside Aviation Museum's annual wartime exhibition in the Heritage Centre, on Canvey Road, Canvey.

Stella has many fond memories of her time spent on the island

She said: "I was part of England's defence during the war and was part of the heavy anti-aircraft gun placements that helped fight off the Germans."

Niece Jessica Thorndike used to live on the island alongside her aunt Stella. She said: "Aunt Stella is still really fond of the island- she often says if her son didn't still live in America she would move back here."

Published Monday, June 16, 2003

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