The strains of classical strings echoed over the Thames estuary at a charity concert in Southend's pier pavilion.

The black tie concert was held to raise money for a new leukaemia ward at Southend Hospital and was attended by councillors and other dignitaries.

Southend-based composer Barrington Pheloung presided over proceedings, conducting London's Metropolitan Orchestra, which comprised some of the country's finest musicians. Pavilion owner Fran McGinty, who also provided food for the event, said it had gone very well.

He said: "Barrington and the Metropolitan Orchestra played a really nice selection of his own compositions, and a few well known pieces as well. Each musician was an individual in their own right, and the cellist was breathtaking."

He hopes to make the the event an annual one at the Pier Pavilion.

On my beat - conductor Barrington Pheloung takes up the baton at the Pier Pavilion

Picture: STEVE O'CONNELL

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