Golden sunshine was the fitting backdrop for a fete held to celebrate 50 years of a Thundersley school.

The annual event on the fields of the King John School was bigger and better then ever in honour of its golden anniversary this academic year.

After the official opening by Essex FM, Castle Point brass band struck up a rousing tune to launch the event.

Non-stop arena displays included the Southend Sapphires majorettes, the school's own music group, gymnastics and dance display teams, Basildon Tai Chi club, and morris dancers.

These were accompanied by numerous stalls and small exhibitions, a charity football match and children's play area.

All money raised from the fete will go towards the school's golden anniversary appeal.

Double vision - twins Mike and Rob Glenister, both 14, of Castle Point Brass Band

Picture: ROBIN WOOSEY

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.